L L6 L laapono 'puma '90C •oN luomma 4inpy
NCoilatiK.
Lesson Titles for the Quarter
1.
The Home Is Built
2.
The Home Is a Partnership
3.
Parents in the Home
4.
Finding Joy in Worship
5.
Discipline in the Modern Home
6.
Making Spiritual Values Relevant
7.
The Home—Primary Center of Education
8.
Health Values in the Home
9.
Recreation Through Play and Hobby
10.
Economics in the Home
11.
Love, the Home's Foundation
12.
Giving, the Greatest Joy
13.
A Foretaste of Heaven
Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly (regular edition), No. 306, October•December, 1971. 35 cents a
single copy, $1.40 a year (four issues) ; no additional charge to countries requiring extra postage.
Published in the U.S.A. by Pacific Press Publishing Association (a corporation of S.D.A.), 1350
Villa Street, Mountain View, California 94040. Second-class mail privileges authorized at Mountain
View, California. Form 3579 requested. When a change of address is desired, please be sure to send
both old and new addresses.
Copyright 1971 by Pacific Press Publishing Association
Cover photos by D. Tank; A. Devaney, Inc.; H. Armstrong Roberts; Eric Kreye; De Wys, Inc.
Illustrations by James Converse
The Blessing of Daily Study
"Every day some portion of time should be appropriated
to the study of the lessons, not merely in learning to me-
chanically repeat the words, while the mind does not com-
prehend the meaning; but to go to the very foundation, and
become familiar with what is brought out in the lesson."
—Counsels on Sabbath School
Work, page 53.
My Pledge
As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of
the Scriptures, I pledge myself to the careful and prayerful
study of some portion of my Sabbath School lesson each
day of the week.
(signed)
Home ReDation
FOURTH QUARTER, 1971
The common practice of relegating the discipline and training of children
and young people to agencies outside the home is altogether devastating in
its results. Contrary to what is sometimes supposed, the youth crave from
their parents the leadership and guidance without which they feel unsure
of themselves.
Reasonably, there comes the question: What are parents for? Not simply
to supply food and shelter and physical necessities, although this is a great
and wonderful service in itself. Parents are also counselors, builders of char-
acter, teachers of truth. They must not abdicate their position as parents.
They are those to whom God has given children, with the prime respon-
sibility as molders and shapers of manners and morals and faith. It is the
purpose of the lessons for this quarter to review the duties of parents and
to determine how they may best accomplish their task.
In the great revival and reformation that is to take place in the church,
there is no better place to begin than in the home. And for the great thrust
of worldwide evangelism, no finer preparation can be made than that which
takes place at the family altar and in the hearts of each member of God's
great household of faith.
Of a preparation for camp meeting years ago Ellen G. White made this
statement: "At home is the place to find Jesus; then take Him with you to
the meeting, and how precious will be the hours you spend there. . . . Pre-
pare your children for the occasion. Teach them that it is not of so much
consequence that they appear with fine clothes as that they appear before
God with clean hands and pure hearts. . . . Even unbelievers will feel the
holy atmosphere as they enter the encampment. . . . It will be to your soul
even as the gate of heaven."—T
estimonies,
Vol. 5, pages 164, 165.
The duty upon parents is much more than merely to provide. It is also
to teach and train, to counsel, and, as necessary, to correct—to live the part
of parents, with gentleness and firmness so intermixed as never to avoid wise
discipline or the doing of duty; to show forth leadership, and remember
never to leave out love.
Let us pray for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on our homes as we
study the lessons for this quarter.
4
LESSON 1
October
2
THE HOME IS BUILT 1
"Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it." Psalm
127:1.
The divine plan in the creation of man
was that human society should be com-
posed of families. In the Garden of Eden
God set forth the pattern for future genera-
tions by establishing the first home. The
family unit was the base upon which the
human race was to be built. From this
first home were to ensue families after the
pattern established in Eden, for it was
there that the nature and purpose of the
home began to be revealed. So important
is the home to the human race that with-
out a true understanding of its nature and
purpose the disintegration of human so-
ciety will result. The aim of •this lesson is
to present those elements of family struc-
ture as revealed in the plan of God and to
point out how each family can best fulfill
this purpose.
KEY THOUGHTS
1.
God is the Author of the home. He
has furnished the blueprint. The plan is
perfect; no improvement can be made
upon it. Every plan He designed has suc-
ceeded, and those who follow His plan
may be assured of success.
2.
On the other hand, Satan is well
aware that if the home disintegrates, all
God's plans for the human race will be
seriously crippled. Consequently the evil
one is determined to destroy the home in
any way he can. His most efficient method
is to lead the human race to trust solely on
human judgment and neglect the plan of
God in this foundation unit of our society.
3.
Man must make the choice. He can
follow the plan designed for him by God,
or he can choose to ignore it. He cannot be
neutral with respect to this matter. He
cannot be passively interested, for lack of
interest means negligence. The fact that
we choose God's plan for the home means
that we must have an active interest in
it. To do less is to court failure.
LESSON OUTLINE
1.
God, the Architect
Gen. 1:27, 28
2.
Man, the Builder
Prov. 24:3, 4
3.
The Role of the Husband
Eph. 5:23
4.
The Role of the Wife
Prov. 18:22
5.
The Role of the Children
Eph. 6:1-3
6.
The Purpose of the Home
Ps. 144:12
The Home Is Built
LESSON 1
0
Sunday
September 26
Part 1
"So God created man in His own image, in the image
GOD, THE of God created He him; male and female created He them.
ARCHITECT And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruit-
ful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue
it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over
the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that
Gen. 1:27, 28 moveth upon the earth."
Does the Bible give us an indication of how God
began the first home? Gen. 2:18-24.
In the creation of the home God designed that the mother
and father should form the basis of the family. Society was
not to arrange its existence on any kind of communal group-
ing. What was to give the human family its distinctive char-
acter was the permanent relationship which was to exist be-
tween mother and father. The family was to depend upon
these two for its mental, spiritual, and physical resources.
How long was this relationship to exist between the
man and the woman? Matt. 19:3-9.
When, in God's plan, did the first family become
complete? Gen. 4:1, 2.
THINK IT THROUGH
The command to "replenish the earth" is as important to
the plan of God in the creation of the home as the declaration,
"And they shall be one flesh."
"A childless house is a desolate place. The hearts of the in-
mates are in danger of becoming selfish, of cherishing a love
for their own ease, and consulting their own desires and con-
veniences. They gather sympathy to themselves, but have little
to bestow upon others."—The
Adventist Home,
page 159.
If the mother and father form the basis of the family,
are the parents totally responsible for the strength or
weakness of that home? Is conceiving children within the
family situation the only way completely to fulfill God's
plan for the home?
"Society is composed of families, and
is what the heads of families make
it. Out of the heart are 'the issues of
life' (Prov. 4:23); and the heart of the
community, of the church, and of the
FOR
FURTHER STUDY: "The Adventist Home
6
nation is the household. The well-being
of society, the success of the church, the
prosperity of the nation, depend upon
home influences."—"The Ministry of
Healing," page 349.
," pages 25-28.
The Home Is Built
LESSON 1
"Through wisdom is an
standing it is established:
chambers be filled with all
What must be the first
of a home?
Monday
September
27
house builded; and by under-
and by knowledge shall the
precious and pleasant riches."
consideration in the building
Part 2
MAN, THE BUILDER
Prov. 24:3, 4
14
,
THINK IT THROUGH
"The first work to be done in a Christian home is to see
that the Spirit of Christ abides there, that every member of
the household may be able to take his cross and follow where
Jesus leads the
way."—The Adventist Home,
page 20. As with
the church, so with the home, Jesus Christ must be "the Chief
Cornerstone, in whom all the building fitly framed together
groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord." Eph. 2:20, 21. "It
is only in Christ that a marriage alliance can be safely formed.
Human love should draw its closest bonds from divine love.
Only where Christ reigns can there be deep, true, unselfish
affection."—The
Ministry of Healing,
page 358.
If we wish Christ to occupy the central place in our
home, what must we do? Rev. 3:20.
What is the next consideration in making the home
what God intended for it to be? Rom. 12:10.
"Tender affection should ever be cherished between husband
and wife, parents and children, brothers and sisters. Every
hasty word should be checked, and there should not be even
the appearance of lack of love for one another."—The
Advent-
ist Home,
page 198.
What does it mean to make Christ the center of the
home? What are some of the ways parents and children
can manifest their love toward each other?
"God desires that heaven's plan
shall be carried out, and heaven's di-
vine order and harmony prevail, in
every family, in every church, in every
institution. Did this love leaven society,
we should see the outworking of noble
principles in Christian refinement and
courtesy, and in Christian charity
toward the purchase of the blood of
Christ. Spiritual transformation would
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "The Ministry of Healing," pages 356-362.
7
be seen in all our families, in our in-
stitutions, in our churches. When this
transformation takes place, these agen-
cies will become instrumentalities by
which God will impart heaven's light
to the world and thus, through divine
discipline and training, fit men and
women for the society of heaven."—
"Testimonies," Vol. 8, p. 140.
Tuesday
September 28
Part 3
"For the husband is the head of the wife, even as
THE ROLE OF Christ is the head of the church: and He is the Saviour of
THE HUSBAND the body."
Eph. 5:23
That the father is the head of the home is a principle estab-
lished within the plan of the home which God created. How-
ever, this idea has been grossly misunderstood by some. To
be head of the home means that the father should be director
of the home, not the dictator. He is not a lord but a leader.
He stands at the head of the family not as sovereign but as
a source of physical and spiritual strength. He is as willing to
listen as he is to speak, as willing to follow counsel as he is
to give it. What makes him the head of the home is that he
can be trusted to seek for that which is the very best for his
family. It must be remembered that he is the head of the home
as Christ is the head of the church.
What should the husband's attitude be toward his
wife? Eph. 5:28.
"He should cultivate refinement and courtesy. He should
be very tender and gentle toward his wife, who is his equal in
every respect; he should not utter a word that would cast a
shadow upon her
heart."—Testimonies,
Vol. 4, pp. 36, 37.
The husband must make sure that in all his relationships
with his wife he maintains that dignity which has been be-
stowed by God on all His human creatures. He should always
hold her in honor and respect. 1 Peter 3:7.
What should be the husband's attitude toward his
children? Eph. 6:4; Col. 3:21; Ps. 103:13.
THINK IT THROUGH
"Give some of your leisure hours to your children; become
acquainted with them; associate with them in their work and
in their sports, and win their confidence. Cultivate friendship
with them, especially with your sons. In this way you will be
a strong influence for good."—The
Ministry of Healing,
pages
391, 392.
In seeking the best for his family, should a father
impose his will or opinion as to what constitutes the best?
"The father is to stand at the head life is to be directed and restrained by
of his family, not as an overgrown, un- the pure principles of the Word of
disciplined boy, but as a man with God."—"The Adventist Home," page
manly character and with his passions 213.
controlled. . . . His conduct in his home
FOR
FURTHER STUDY:
"The Adventist Home," pages 211-224.
8
The Home Is Built
LESSON 1
The Home Is Built
LESSON 1
Part 4
THE ROLE OF
THE WIFE
Prey. 18:22
THINK IT THROUGH
Wednesday
September
29
"Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and ob-
taineth favor of the Lord."
What is the wife's place in the home? Gen. 2:21-22.
If the husband is the head, the wife could be said to be
the heart of the home. As the physical body needs both head
and heart, so the family is dependent on both mother and
father. Equal in importance, they each play a different role.
They complement each other but do not compete. She partici-
pates with the father in the direction of the family. Prov. 31:26.
She helps her husband and children toward the goal that God
holds before them. She brings the refinement and strength of
her femininity and makes it an influence in the home.
What should the wife's attitude be toward her hus-
band?
"The wife is to respect her husband. The husband is to love
and cherish his wife; and as their marriage vow unites them
as one, so their belief in Christ should make them one in Him."
—The Adventist Home,
page 114.
The woman who takes to herself prerogatives in the home
which were never intended for her, and then excuses her course
of action by suggesting that she does so because her husband is
a weak man, is no better than a tyrannical man who imposes
his overbearing authority on his family. The wife must remem-
ber that equality and respect should be given to the husband
as well as to the wife. It is true that respect is earned, but
weakness never becomes strength by being dictated to. A true
wife will do her best to strengthen the husband and show him
respect for the sake of the children.
Is it the wife's place to help her husband, if he is
weak, to become head of the home in reality? Are there
any real reasons for the mother to seek employment?
Let woman realize the sacredness of
her work and in the strength and fear
of God take up her life mission. Let
her educate her children for usefulness
in this world and for a home in the
better world."—"The Adventist Home,"
page 231.
"Woman should fill the position
which God originally designed for her,
as her husband's equal. The world
needs mothers who are mothers not
merely in name but in every sense of
the word. We may safely say that the
distinctive duties of woman are more
sacred, more holy, than those of man.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "The Adventist Home," pages 231-273.
2—A4Qt71
The Home Is Built
LESSON 1
Thursday
September 30
"Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is
right. Honor thy father and mother; which is the first
commandment with promise; that it may be well with
thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth."
What relationship did God design should exist be-
tween children and parents? Ex. 20:12.
"This is the first commandment with promise. It is binding
upon childhood and youth, upon the middle-aged and the
aged. There is no period in life when children are excused
from honoring their parents. This solemn obligation is binding
upon every son and daughter and is one of the conditions to
their prolonging their lives upon the land which the Lord will
give the faithful. This is not a subject unworthy of notice, but
a matter of vital importance."—The
Adventist Home,
page
2 92 .
What should
be
the attitude of parents toward their
children? Eph. 6:4.
"Remember that children •have rights which must be re-
spected."—Ibid., p. 306.
"Let none imagine . . . that harshness and severity are
necessary to secure obedience. . . . There is danger of too
severely criticizing small things. Criticism that is too severe,
rules that are too rigid, lead to the disregard of all regulations;
and by and by children thus educated will show the same dis-
respect for the laws of Christ."—Ibid., pp. 308, 309.
THINK IT THROUGH
Does a parent always know what is good for his chil-
dren? Must a parent receive the honor and respect of
his children even if he does not deserve it? When does
a child's financial obligation toward his parents cease?
Part 5
THE ROLE OF
THE CHILDREN
Eph. 6:1-3
D
"God cannot prosper those who go
directly contrary to the plainest duty
specified in His Word, the duty of chil-
dren to their parents. . . . If they dis-
respect and dishonor their earthly par-
ents, they will not respect and love
their Creator."—"The Adventist Home,"
page 293.
"Prompt and continual obedience to
wise parental rule will promote the
10
happiness of the children themselves,
as well as the honor of God and the
good of society. Children should learn
that in submission to the laws of the
household is their perfect liberty. Chris-
tians will learn the same lesson—that
in their obedience to God's law is their
perfect freedom."—"Child Guidance,"
page 79.
The Home Is Built
LESSON 1
Friday
October I
Part 6
"That our sons may be as plants grown up in their
THE PURPOSE youth; that our daughters may be as cornerstones, pol-
OF THE HOME ished after the similitude of a palace."
Ps. 144:12
THINK IT THROUGH
The home is not to be a self-contained, uninvolved entity.
It is not merely a place for humans to live and breed and die.
It is not merely for the propagation of the human race. It has
a higher destiny and purpose. The mission of the home ex-
tends beyond its own members. "The Christian home is to be
an object lesson, illustrating the excellence of the true principles
of life."—The
Ministry of Healing,
page 352.
"The Christian home is God's insurance of righteousness in
the earth. The home can never be completely abolished without
the race's slipping into promiscuity of sex relations, disintegra-
tion of government, and spiritual slavery. . . . To the extent
that the ideal home is deprived of its rightful place and pow-
ers, to that extent will civilization descend. On the other hand,
the more the home is built up to its original plan and purpose,
and the better parents and prospective parents are fitted for
their duties, the more virtuous, competent, and stable will be
both state and society."—A. W. Spalding,
Makers of the Home,
page 29.
"A well-ordered Christian household is a powerful argu-
ment in favor of the reality of the Christian religion—an argu-
ment that the infidel cannot gainsay. All can see that there is
an influence at work in the family that affects the children,
and that the God of Abraham is with them. If the homes of
professed Christians had a right religious mold, they would
exert a mighty influence for good. They would indeed be
the 'light of the world.'
"—The Adventist Home,
page 36.
Can a home really fulfill the plan of God when it
shuts itself from all others and considers only its own
existence?
What are some of the things that parents can do in
the home to help their children become involved in
service?
"It is no small matter for a family to
epistles known and read of all men.
stand as representatives of Jesus, keep-
This position involves fearful responsi-
ing God's law in an unbelieving corn-
bilities."—"The Adventist Home," pages
munity. We are required to be living
31, 32.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "The Adventist Home," pages 31-35; "The Ministry of Heal-
ing," pages 388-394.
11
The Home Is Built
LESSON 1
Part 7 G SUMMARY QUESTIONS G TO TEST YOUR STUDY POWER
1.
Who is the architect of the home?
2.
Who is the builder of the home?
3.
The father is to be a dictator
, director
, in the home.
He should rule over
, respect
his wife.
4.
True or False. The wife is to run the home if the husband is weak in
leadership
5.
That children should obey parents "is not a subject unworthy of notice,
but a
of
6.
The home is to serve as
and a
(The answers are at the bottom of the page.)
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12
LESSON 2
October 9
THE HOME IS A PARTNERSHIP
2
"Fulfill ye My joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one
accord, of one mind." Phil. 2:2.
The nature of the home is best under-
stood when one looks at it as a unit. To
be successful it must be a partnership. Its
success depends on cooperation. The
strength of the home will be seen in its
corporate activity. As the home is the
basic unit in society, a truly Christian
home will be a light to the world and a
means of drawing others into the fulfill-
ment of God's purpose.
As we spend this week studying the home
in its structure as a partnership, we must
keep in mind some of the guiding prin-
ciples of any joint activity. We shall see
how, by applying these principles in the
home, we can enhance the unity of the
family and develop between parents and
children a relationship which will bring
enduring happiness and joy.
LESSON OUTLINE
1. Love the Prime Requisite
1 Cor. 13:13
2. Mutual Respect Is Essential
1 Cor. 7:3, 4
3. Mutual Forbearance
1 Cor. 13:4-7
4. A Share in Home Planning
Amos 3:3
5. A Loving Dialogue
Prov. 18:21
6. A Common Faith
2 Cor. 6:14
13
The Home Is a Partnership
LESSON 2
Sunday
October 3
Part 1
"And now abideth faith, hope, charity [love], these
LOVE THE PRIME three; but the greatest of these is charity."
1 Cor. 13:13
REQUISITE
is not primarily an emotion, but a principle. Love can only
be understood in the light of the cross. At the cross the be-
The foundation of the home must be love—the love which
liever in Christ sees the fullest expression of that love. There
Christ showed His ultimate concern; there He demonstrated
love which would go to any length to provide the best for His
own. If parents in a home are motivated in their thoughts and
actions by such a principle, they can form a partnership that
will bear the irritations of life and leave for their children
a legacy that will prepare them for a future with God.
"Love is a precious gift, which we receive from Jesus. Pure
and holy affection is not a feeling, but a principle. Those who
are actuated by true love are neither unreasonable nor blind.
Taught by the Holy Spirit, they love God supremely, and
their neighbor as themselves."—The
Ministry of Healing,
pages 358, 359. Love "doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh
not her own, is not easily provoked." 1 Cor. 13:5.
Why would the apostle encourage all parents to "put
on love"? Col. 3:14.
THINK IT THROUGH
What is there about love that makes for a binding
partnership? What is the difference between love as a
principle and love as an emotion? Can there be true
love in a home when one partner imposes his will upon
the other?
"Let each give love rather than
exact it. Cultivate that which is noblest
in yourselves, and be quick to recog-
nize the good qualities in each other.
The consciousness of being appreciated
is a wonderful stimulus and satisfac-
tion. Sympathy and respect encourage
the striving after excellence, and love
itself increases as it stimulates to nobler
aims.
"Neither the husband nor the wife
should merge his or her individuality
in that of the other. Each has a per-
sonal relation to God. Of Him each is
to ask, 'What is right?' What is
wrong?' How may I best fulfill life's
purpose?' Let the wealth of your af-
fection flow forth to Him who gave His
life for you. Make Christ first and last
and best in everything."—"The Min-
istry of Healing," page 361.
FOR
FURTHER STUDY: "The Adventist Home," pages 105-113.
14
THINK IT THROUGH
Monday
October 4
"Let the husband render unto the wife due benevo-
lence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. The
wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband:
and likewise also the husband hath not power of his
own body, but the wife."
If there is one thing above another which will create a
rift in any marriage partnership, it is the desire of one partner
to be above the other. Supremacy in marriage is not a worth-
while object to strive for. A true partnership in marriage can
be achieved only when each shows respect to the other and
treats him as an equal. In the Christian home the husband
is to treat the wife with goodwill, honoring and cherishing her,
learning to understand her needs and desires as she will learn
to respect his.
"Neither the husband nor the wife should attempt to exer-
cise over the other an arbitrary control. Do not try to compel
each other to yield to your wishes. You cannot do this and
retain each other's love. Be kind, patient, and forbearing, con-
siderate, and courteous. By the grace of God you can succeed
in making each other happy, as in your marriage vow you
promised to
do."--The Ministry of Healing,
page 361.
What does Peter say should be the relationship exist-
ing between husbands and wives?
1
Peter 3:7.
The very warmth of the love that binds two hearts to-
gether, the closeness of contact of two lives joined as one, are
to be guarded with devout prayer and watchful care.
What do we mean by the equality of husband and
wife? In what way could husbands and wives best show
their respect for each other?
Part 2
MUTUAL RESPECT
IS ESSENTIAL
1 Cor. 7:3, 4
The Home Is a Partnership
LESSON 2
"If the will of God is fulfilled, the
husband and wife will respect each
other and cultivate love and confi-
dence. Anything that would mar the
peace and unity of the family should
be firmly repressed, and kindness and
love should be cherished. He who man-
ifests the spirit of tenderness, forbear-
ance, and love will find that the same
spirit will be reflected upon him. Where
the Spirit of God reigns, there will be
no talk of unsuitability in the marriage
relation. If Christ incleed is formed
within, the hope of glory, there will be
union and love in the home."—"The
Adventist Home," page 120.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "The Ministry of Healing," pages 356-362.
15
The Home Is a Partnership
LESSON 2
Part 3
MUTUAL
FORBEARANCE
1 Cor. 13:4-7
THINK IT THROUGH
Tuesday
October 5
"Charity suffereth long, and is kind; . . . beareth all
things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth
all things."
In marriage two individuals come closer and discover more
about each other than in any other association in life. This is
why the early period of marriage is a critical time. The care
with which each has gone through the courtship tends to slip
as the trials of living become very real. The weaknesses that
had been zealously controlled begin to show through. It is
very easy to see defects. If each learns the lessons of patience
and forbearance, the partnership will grow strong and that
strength will help each partner to overcome the defects that
may be part of his character. The assurance of success in the
building of a home lies in mutual love and forbearance.
"Though difficulties, perplexities, and discouragements may
arise, let neither husband nor wife harbor the thought that
their union is a mistake or a disappointment. Determine to be
all that it is possible to be to each other. Continue the early
attentions. In every way encourage each other in fighting the
battles of life. Study to advance the happiness of each other.
Let there be mutual love, mutual forbearance. Then marriage,
instead of being the end of love, will be as it were the very
beginning of
love."—The Ministry of Healing,
page 360.
What admonition to all Christians applies especially
to husbands and wives? Rom. 12:10.
"We cannot cherish home affection with too much care; for
the home, if the Spirit of the Lord dwells there, is a type of
heaven. . . . If one errs, the other will exercise Christlike for-
bearance and not draw coldly away."—The
AdveittiirlThme,
page 118.
Is there ever a time when a husband or wife can come
to the limit in forbearance? What is the relationship
between forbearance and infidelity?
"Without mutual forbearance and
love no earthly power can hold you
and your husband in the bonds of
Christian unity. Your companionship in
the marriage relation should be close
and tender, holy and elevated, breath-
ing a spiritual power into your lives,
FOR
FURTHER
STUDY:
"The Adventist Home," pages 114-128.
16
that you may be everything to each
other that God's Word requires. When
you reach the condition that the Lord
desires you to reach, you will find
heaven below and God in your life."
—"The Adventist Home," page 112.
The Home Is a Partnership
LESSON 2
Part 4
A SHARE IN
HOME PLANNING
Amos 3:3
THINK IT THROUGH
111 Wednesday
October 6
"Can two walk together, except they be agreed?"
Our text provides a very important thought which will
make a home either a partnership or a chaotic situation. In
too many cases husbands and wives find themselves at variance
as to how to govern the home. There are those who think that
because they are the head of the home all decisions are to be
made by them irrespective of how the wife feels. This was
never the plan of God in the forming of the home. A home
which is run on this basis may soon disintegrate, and the hus-
band and wife often go their separate ways before many
summers come and go. When the prophet says that it is diffi-
cult for two to walk together unless they are agreed, he is
suggesting an essential principle of a happy home. Both hus-
band and wife hold the responsibility for the home. They are
both to come together and share in the destiny of their chil-
dren. Counseling together, they are to plan a course of action
which will help the whole family toward God and heaven. It
is good for any husband and wife to remember the words of
Eccl. 4:9-12.
In giving man a companion, how did God emphasize
this principle of corporate planning and action by hus-
band and wife? Gen. 2:18.
"The happiness and prosperity of the marriage relation
depends upon the unity of the
parties."—Patriarchs and
Prophets,
page 174. As a "helpmeet" the wife is to be a coun-
selor and help in the building of the home.
What can a wife do when she finds herself not being
included in any of the decisions having to do with her
home? What are the ways in which a wife can truly be
a fellow planner of the home? What part should a wife
play in the devotional aspect of the home?
"Let the husband and wife study
each other's happiness, never failing
ink
e smc
rillToTrrtesies and little kindly
acts that cheer and brighten the life.
Perfect confidence should exist between
husband and wife. Together they
should consider their responsibilities.
Together they should work for the
highest good of their children. Never
should they in the presence of the chil-
dren criticize each other's plans or
question each other's judgment. Let the
wife be careful not to make the hus-
band's work more difficult. Let the
husband hold up the hands of his wife,
giving her wise counsel and loving en-
couragement."—"The Ministry of Heal-
ing," pages 393, 394.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "The Ministry ofHealing," pages 371-378.
3—A4Qt71
17
Part 5
A LOVING
DIALOGUE
Prov. 18:21
THINK IT THROUGH
Thursday
October 7
"Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and
they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof."
More unhappiness can result from a communications failure
than from any other one cause. When problems and disagree-
ments arise, many couples aggravate the trouble by a failure
to discuss their problems. But it is only by a free and open
exchange between husband and wife that many a disagreement
can be avoided. Two people who are truly in love desire to
know each other more and more as the years go by. In this
knowledge they will find a closeness which will bind them
together and will be a source of strength for each as they face
the problems of life together. In no better way can this be
accomplished than by an exchange of thoughts and ideas, of
goals and ambitions. There is no place in the Christian home
for a wife to live in loneliness because of a lack of communi-
cation. There is no place in the Christian home for a man or
wife to speak only in grunts or well-aimed stinging words.
The marriage will grow ever sweeter and stronger in the ex-
change of words that represent a living and loving dialogue.
How much should a wife say to her husband about
herself? And he about himself? What are the important
things that husband and wife should talk about? What
conversations should they avoid when the children are
present?
The Home Is a Partnership
LESSON 2
It takes a rugged purpose, and daily
touch with God, and pure habits of
life for married people to continue the
respect for each other and the little
courtesies with which their friendship
began. But if there is genuine rever-
ence for God, there will certainly be
due respect, admiration, and charity
for each other.
"'Let knowledge grow from more to
more
But more of reverence in us
dwell;
That mind and soul'according
well,
May make one music as before.
But vaster."
—Tennyson
"A house with love in it, where
love is expressed in words and looks
and deeds, is a place where angels
love to manifest their presence and
hallow the scene by rays of light from
glory. There the humble household
duties have a charm in them. None
of life's duties will be unpleasant to
your wife under such circumstances.
She will perform them with cheerful-
ness of spirit and will be like a sun-
beam to all around her, and she will
be making melody in her heart to the
Lord. . . . There is a serious lack of
love's precious influence which leads
to kindly attentions. Love should be
seen in the looks and manners and
heard in the tones of the voice."—"The
Adventist Home," page 109.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "Messages to Young People," pages 453-466.
18
Part 6
A COMMON FAITH
2 Cor.
6:14
THINK IT THROUGH
Friday
October 8
"Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbe-
lievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with un-
righteousness? and what communion hath light with
darkness?"
Unless husband and wife see eye to eye in the basic ele-
ments of religious faith, they cannot be one in purpose. So
far as possible, then, provision for this unity should be made
at the very beginning, by selecting a mate from the same
church fellowship. It is granted that being members of the
same church does not in itself ensure spiritual unity. And
sometimes the faith of either husband or wife may grow cold
or their experience may undergo a change. Still it is no ad-
vantage, indeed it is folly, to accept consciously such a divi-
sion at the beginning.
Why did Moses admonish the Israelites not to inter-
marry with the Canaanites? Deut. 7:3, 4.
"There is in the Christian world an astonishing, alarming
indifference to the teaching of God's Word in regard to the
marriage of Christians with unbelievers. Many who profess
to love and fear God choose to follow the bent of their own
minds rather than take counsel of Infinite Wisdom. In a
matter which vitally concerns the happiness and well-being
of both parties for this world and the next, reason, judgment,
and the fear of God are set aside, and blind impulse, stubborn
determination, is allowed to control. . . . All this is as Satan
would have it. . . . It is no easy thing to decide what advice
can be given to these unfortunate ones, or how their hard lot
can be lightened; but their sad experience should be a warn-
ing to
others."—Testimonies,
Vol. 5., pp. 365, 366.
Can this principle of not marrying an unbeliever ap-
ply to an Adventist who has no real experience with
God?
The Home Is a Partnership
LESSON 2
"Let those who are contemplating
marriage weigh every sentiment and
watch every development of charac-
ter in the one with whom they think
to unite their life destiny. Let every
step toward a marriage alliance be
characterized by modesty, simplicity,
sincerity, and an earnest purpose to
please and honor God. Marriage af-
fects the afterlife- both in this world
and in the world to come. A sincere
FOR FURTHER
STUDY "The Adventist Home
Christian will make no plans that God
cannot approve.
"If you are blessed with God-fearing
parents, seek counsel of them. Open to
them your hopes and plans, learn the
lessons which their life experiences
have taught, and you will be saved
many a heartache. Above all, make
Christ your counselor. Study His Word
with prayer."—"The Ministry of Heal-
ing," page 359.
," pages 434-443.
19
OL
Answers: (1) love; (2) True, False, False; (3) early attentions, happiness; (4) Gen. 2:18; (5)
communications; (6) unbelievers would lead them from God.
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LESSON 3
PARENTS IN THE HOME
"Children's children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are
their fathers." Prov. 17:6.
It is the parents who provide the foun-
dation upon which the home is built. The
success of any home is in a great degree
dependent upon the character and direction
of the parents. They are the builders of the
home. Their influence molds it for good or
for evil. This responsibility is, of course,
one which rests upon both parents. No man
can plead that his business does not allow
him to fulfill his part. For it does not mat-
ter how devoted the mother is to the task,
the absence of the father in this work will
stand in the way of any lasting results.
There are certain responsibilities that par-
enthood imposes, and in this lesson we
shall call attention to some which are im-
portant in making parenthood a success.
KEY THOUGHTS
1.
Preparation—Parenthood is not a
duty into which one stumbles without fore-
thought. When we talk about planned par-
enthood, the emphasis is usually upon con-
trolling the conception of children. It would
be well to shift the emphasis to the quali-
fications of the parents, for much thought-
ful consideration should go into the roles
of the mother and the father of a child.
The responsibilities which this step involves
should be entered into with all seriousness.
There should be a physical, mental, and
spiritual preparation in the planning for
children. When a child is born, two par-
ents are made. Then it is too late to won-
der whether they are fit or ready for such
an undertaking.
2.
Education—As
a parent you have a
responsibility to your children to keep
abreast of what is best and proper for
them. There are those parents who spend
more time keeping in touch with the latest
on cars and houses than on how best to
prepare their children for life. And initial
preparation is not enough. There must be
a continual learning.
3.
Dedication—There
is no such thing
as weekend parenthood. There is too much
of the feeling that during the week it is
up to the school and that the parents' con-
cern is only for the weekend. The task of
parenthood is a work which asks for the
whole of the parent's life. This may seem
to be asking a lot, but if you give life to
children, they demand the attention. A par-
ent then must be dedicated to the task of
caring for and training his children until
they are launched into life. The commit-
ment is truly demanding, but the rewards
are worth the effort.
LESSON OUTLINE
1.
Family Morale
Prov. 15:4
2.
Teaching
Deut. 6:7
3.
Religious Education
Deut. 6:4-7
4.
Discipline
Eph. 6:1-4, Phillips
5.
Courtesy—Etiquette
1 Peter 3:8, Phillips
6.
Healthful Living
3 John 2, Phillips
21
Parents in the Home
LESSON 3
Sunday
October 10
Part 1
"A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverse-
FAMILY MORALE ness therein is a breach in the spirit."
Prov. 15:4
Spirit and atmosphere of the home is primarily a responsi-
bility of the parents. The cheerfulness of the home will depend
on how parents relate to life with its hardships or its joys. The
parents can promote a spirit of tranquillity and peace or a
spirit of contention. This is determined by the parents' atti-
tudes and words. It will be determined also in their disposi-
tion. Theirs will be either a spirit of optimism, faith, and
love, or one of pessimism, unbelief, and hostility. The children's
attitude toward religion and toward the church will be deter-
mined to a great degree by the attitudes of their parents to
these things. And this attitude and outlook on every part of
life will be carried from the home into the world.
"Parents, be cheerful, not common and cheap, but be
thankful and obedient and submissive to your heavenly
Father. You are not at liberty to act out your feelings if things
should arise that irritate. Winning love is to be like deep
waters, ever flowing forth in the management of your chil-
dren. They are the lambs of the flock of God. Bring your little
ones to Christ. If parents would educate their children to be
pleasant, they should never speak in a scolding manner to
them. Educate yourself to carry a pleasant countenance, and
bring all the sweetness and melody possible into your voice.
The angels of God are ever near your little ones, and your
harsh loud tones of fretfulness are not pleasant to their ears."
—The Adventist Home,
page 432.
Knowing the influence of words, what does the apostle
suggest about our speech at all times? Col. 4:6.
THINK IT THROUGH
If a child develops a spirit of contention and bitter-
ness, is it always the parent's fault? How does a parent
develop a spirit which will contribute to his children's
disposition?
"Home should be a place where
cheerfulness, courtesy, and love abide;
cnd where these graces dwell, there
will abide happiness and peace. Trou-
bles may invade, but these are the
lot of humanity. Let patience, grati-
tude, and love keep sunshine in the
heart, though the day may be ever so
cloudy. In such homes angels of God
abide."—"The Ministry of Healing,"
page 393.
"Above all things else, let parents
surround their children with an atmos-
phere of cheerfulness, courtesy, and
love. A home where love dwells, and
where it is expressed in looks, in
words, and in acts, is a place where
angels delight to manifest their pres-
ence.
"Parents, let the sunshine of love,
cheerfulness, and happy contentment
enter your own hearts; and let its
sweet, cheering influence pervade your
home."—"Child Guidance," page 146.
FOR FURTHER STUDY:
"Child Guidance," pages 146-149.
22
Parents in the Home
LESSON 3
Monday
October 11
Part 2
"And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy chil-
TEACHING dren, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine
house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when
Deut. 6:7 thou liest down, and when thou risest up."
It was always the plan of God that parents should be the
teachers for their children. When Israel was brought out of
Egypt, He again emphasized the work of the parents as teach-
ers. Unfortunately in many instances this has been overlooked
by modern parents. They have relinquished their responsibil-
ity and left it all for the teacher in the school. However, the
school is to be a supplement for the work which is done in
the home by mothers and fathers. In the final analysis, it is
in the home where children are prepared for school and for
life. See
The Adventist Home,
page 185. The responsibility of
being teachers to their children is most important, and to
neglect it is to rob the children of that which will prepare
them for life.
"Parents should not lightly regard the work of training
their children, nor neglect it upon any account. They should
employ much time in careful study of the laws which regu-
late our being. They should make it their first object to be-
come intelligent in regard to the proper manner of dealing
with their children, that they may secure to them sound minds
in sound bodies."—Child
Guidance,
pages 21, 22.
According to the wise man, why is parental teaching
so important? Prov. 22:6.
THINK IT THROUGH
Why is the instruction of parents so important to a
child? What are some of the things.which children can
learn from parents which they may not receive in school?
"Will parents review their work in
the educating and training of their
children, and consider whether they
have done their whole duty in hope
and faith that these children may be
a crown of rejoicing in the day of the
Lord Jesus? Have they so labored for
the welfare of their children that Jesus
can look down from heaven and by the
gift of His Spirit sanctify their efforts?
Parents, it may be yours to prepare
your children for the highest usefulness
in this life, and to share at last the
glory of that which is to come."—
"Child Guidance," page 25.
FOR
FURTHER STUDY:
"The Adventist Home," pages
181-186.
23
Parents in the Home
LESSON 3
Tuesday
October 12
Part 3
"Hear, 0 Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord: and
RELIGIOUS thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and
EDUCATION with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these
words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine
heart: and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy
Deut. 6:4-7 children."
A child first learns about God from his parents. He should
also learn from his parents the place that God should hold in
his life. He catches the sincerity and reality of God from the
relationship of his parents with God. The foundation, then,
for the religious life of the child is laid by the parents, and
on this foundation is built their future spiritual faith. The
meaning of God is learned at home. If God is not taken se-
riously, this attitude will be passed along to the children. If
the children never see their parents pray, they will consider
that God does not matter much. This makes the practice of
family worship important. For when it is entered into with
iiriTifityFrdeirotionrwhen the children see their parents in
this act of commitment and worship, the children will come
to believe in the importance of God for life. The worship
time will then become a symbol to the whole family that God
stands at the center of all family activity. It will be seen by
the children that the Bible is more than a book for display;
it is truly a book for life. And in this religious education of
the family both father and mother should share.
THINK IT THROUGH
How can we make the relationship with God a reality
to our children? What are some of 'the reasons for the
neglect of worship in the home? Who should take the
initiative in the religious education of the children? Why?
"From the earliest age a wise edu-
cation in Christ's lines is to be begun
and carried forward. When the chil-
dren's hearts are impressible, they are
to be taught concerning eternal reali-
ties."—"The Adventist Home," page
320.
"Parents make a most terrible mis-
take when they neglect the work of
giving their children religious training,
thinking that they will come out all
right in the future and, as they get
older, will of themselves be anxious
for a religious experience. Cannot you
see, parents, that if you do not plant
the precious seeds of truth, of love, of
heavenly attributes, in the heart, Satan
will sow the field of the heart with
tares?"—"Ibid.," p. 319.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "The Adventist Home," pages 317-325.
24
Parents in the Home
LESSON 3
Wednesday
October 13
Part 4
"Children, the right thing for you to do is to obey your
DISCIPLINE parents as those whom God has set over you. The first
commandment to contain a promise was: Honor thy father
and thy mother that it may be well with thee, and that
thou mayest live long on the earth. Fathers, don't over-
correct your children or make it difficult for them to obey
Eph. 6:1-4, the commandment. Bring them up with Christian teaching
Phillips
in Christian discipline."
What is the duty of children to parents and the duty
of parents to children? Col. 3:20, 21.
Of all the responsibilities that fall to parents, discipline is
perhaps the most delicate. It is here that the relationship be-
tween parent and child will be made or broken. It is in the
realm of discipline that the parent must look seriously and
earnestly into his own heart. For discipline may flow either
from emotional troubles or out of a heart that loves enough
that it may have to hurt in order to help. In many cases dis-
cipline is a form of retaliation on the child for his "affront"
to parental authority.
What are the results of correct home discipline?
THINK IT THROUGH
"One of the first lessons a child needs to learn is the lesson
of obedience. Before he is old enough to reason, he may be
taught to obey. By gentle, persistent effort, the habit should be
established. Thus, to a great degree, may be prevented those
later conflicts between will and authority that do so much
to create alienation and bitterness toward parents and teach-
ers, and too often resistance of all authority, human and
divine ."—Education ,
page 287.
Who is responsible for the discipline in the home?
What does it mean to provoke your children? Is physical
discipline a good way to teach children obedience?
"It requires skill and patient effort
to mold the young in the right man-
ner. Especially do children who have
come into the world burdened with a
heritage of evil, the direct results of
the sins of their parents, need the
most careful culture to develop and
strengthen their moral and intellectual
faculties. And the responsibility of the
parents is heavy indeed. Evil tenden-
cies are to be carefully restrained and
tenderly rebuked; the mind is to be
stimulated in favor of the right. The
child should be encouraged in attempt-
ing to govern himself. And all this is
to be done judiciously, or the purpose
desired will be frustrated."—"Child
Guidance," page 228.
FOR FURTHER
STUDY: "Counsels to Teachers," pages 111-118.
4-A4Qt71
25
Parents in the Home
LESSON 3
Part 5
COURTESY—
ETIQUETTE
1 Peter 3:8,
Phillips
THINK IT THROUGH
Thursday
October 14
"To sum up, you should all be of one mind living like
brothers with true love and sympathy for one another,
generous and courteous at all times."
Training in courtesy and etiquette in many homes is over-
looked as something that belongs only to the rich and the elite
in society. This attitude is the result of a misunderstanding of
courtesy and etiquette. There is much more to etiquette and
courtesy than simply doing the right thing at the right time.
These are social disciplines which express thoughtfulness and
respect to others. To be courteous is to be thoughtful. Eti-
quette codifies thoughtfulness in such a way that it may
become a guide in our treatment of people as we leafn to be
considerate of others. A Christian should be naturally the
most thoughtful person. To teach children courtesy with some
rules of etiquette is to teach them to be thoughtful and con-
siderate of others. "The principles of heaven are to be brought
into the government of the home. Every child is to be taught
to be polite, compassionate, loving, pitiful, courteous, tender-
hearted."—Child
Guidance,
page 143.
What are some rules of etiquette which are valuable
to a Christian? Is it possible for a Christian to be re-
fined? What are some of the ways that a parent can
teach his children how to be courteous?
"The essence of true politeness is
consideration for others. The essen-
tial, enduring education is that which
broadens the sympathies and encour-
ages universal kindliness. That so-
called culture which does not make a
youth deferential toward
his
parents,
appreciative of their excellences, for-
bearing toward their defects, and help-
ful to their necessities; which does not
make him considerate and tender, gen-
erous and helpful toward the young,
the old, and the unfortunate, and cour-
teous toward all is a failure."—"The
Adventist Home," page 423.
"A kind, courteous Christian is the
most powerful argument that can be
produced in favor of Christianity."—
"Gospel Workers," page 122.
FOR
FURTHER STUDY:
"Child Guidance," pages 143-145.
26
Parents in the Home
LESSON 3
Part 6
HEALTHFUL
LIVING
3 John 2, Phillips
THINK IT THROUGH
Friday
October 15
"My heartfelt prayer for you, my very dear friend, is
that you be as healthy and prosperous in every way as
you are in soul."
What should parents teach their children regarding
their bodies? 1 Cor. 6:19, 20.
Of all the responsibilities which have been overlooked by
parents most frequently is one which pertains to healthful
living. Yet the present and future happiness of their children
depends on their understanding and obeying the rules of health.
Much of the illness which plagues thousands could be avoided
if only, as children, they had been given the right instruction
in health. "The first study of the young should be to know
themselves and how to keep their bodies in health."—Testi-
monies,
Vol. 3, p. 142.
"In the early education of children, many parents and
teachers fail to understand that the greatest attention needs
to be given to the physical constitution, that a healthy condi-
tion of body and brain can be secured.
"The future happiness of your families and the welfare
of society depend largely upon the physical and moral educa-
tion which your children receive in the first years of their life."
—Child Guidance,
page 103.
Why is it difficult to hold to the middle of the road
in discussions relating to health? How can this problem
be rectified? What areas of life does health reform cover?
"Healthful living must be made a
family matter. Parents should awake
to their God-given responsibilities. Let
them study the principles of health re-
form and teach their children that the
path of self-denial is the only path of
safety."—"Child Guidance," page 104.
"Teach your children to study from
cause to effect; show them that if they
violate the laws of their being, they
must pay the penalty by suffering dis-
ease. If in your effort you can see no
special improvement, be not discour-
aged• patiently instruct, line upon line,
precept upon precept, here a little and
there a little. . . . Press on until the
victory is gained. Continue to teach
your children in regard to their own
bodies, and how to take care of them.
Recklessness in regard to bodily health
tends to recklessness in moral charac-
ter."—"Ibid."
FOR FURTHER.STUDY:
"The Ministry of Healing,;" pages 295-310..
27
Parents in the Home
LESSON 3
Part 7 G SUMMARY QUESTIONS G TO TEST YOUR STUDY POWER
1.
"Home should be a place where
, and
abide."
2.
What is the most important responsibility of parents?
3.
True or False:
A child first learns about God in Sabbath School or church
A child can begin learning eternal realities at the earliest age
Most children will turn out all right if allowed to wait until they want
religious training
4.
What is the influence of a good Christian home?
5.
"The essence of true politeness is
for
6.
"Recklessness in regard to bodily
tends to recklessness in
)1
(The answers are at the bottom of the page.)
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28
LESSON 4
October
23
FINDING JOY IN WORSHIP
4
"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain
mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." Heb. 4:16.
The core of Christian experience is found
in worship. If we read our Saviour's life
and works aright, especially the beginning
of the Sermon on the Mount, we find that
one of His chief concerns is for the happi-
ness of those who are called by His name.
Surely, then, the most central experience
of life should be the most joyful. We think
of prayer in its broadest aspects as the chief
expression of worship in the Christian life.
The person who finds the true joy inherent
in the Christian experience will indeed be
able to come boldly, joyfully, to the throne
of grace. Even when coming for mercy and
help, one can find a note of joy from the
assurance that our coming to Him is not
in vain.
This lesson is designed to explore the
possibilities of the family altar as a means
of making the worship of God the truly
thrilling and joyful experience it can and
should be. Whether the home is of a child-
less couple or a large family, the time of
worship can be not only a joyful experi-
ence, but a stabilizing influence as well.
The saying that "The family that prays
together, stays together" is still true. It
may be that the establishment of the family
altar along with faithful attendance at
Sabbath worship services and prayer meet-
ing would do much to bridge the "genera-
tion gap" we hear so much about today.
LESSON OUTLINE
1.
Worship Is Natural to the
Christian
Ps. 95:1, 2, 6, 7
2.
The Need and Place of Worship
in the Home
Job 1:5
3.
The Scriptures and Worship
Ps. 119:105
4.
Preparation for Public Worship
Ex. 20:8-11
5.
Sabbath Worship
Hab. 2:20
6.
Sabbath Opportunities for
Study and Service
Mark 2:27
29
Finding Joy in Worship
LESSON 4
Sunday
October 17
Part 1
"0 come, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a
WORSHIP IS joyful noise to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come
NATURAL TO before His presence with Thanksgiving, and make a joy-
THE CHRISTIAN ful noise unto Him with psalms."
"0 come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel
before the Lord our Maker. For He is our God; and we
are the people of His pasture, and the sheep of His
Ps. 95:1,
2, 6, 7
hand."
There is a joyful note throughout this psalm. What
seems to be the basic reason for joyfulness? Ps. 95:7.
From the very beginning man has worshiped. Worship and
love welled up in the hearts of Adam and Eve even after they
were driven from their Eden home.
"The fallen race were long permitted to gaze upon the
home of innocence, their entrance barred only by the watch-
ing angels. At the cherubim-guarded gate of Paradise the
divine glory was revealed. Hither came Adam and his sons to
worship
God."—Patriarchs and Prophets,
page 62.
Jacob's experience when he was fleeing from his brother's
wrath illustrates man's normal desire to call upon God.
"And Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, Surely
the Lord is in this place; and I knew it not. And he was
afraid, and said, How dreadful is this place! this is none other
but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven. And Jacob
rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that he had
put for his pillows, and set it up for a pillar, and poured oil
upon the top of it. And he called the name of that place
Bethel. . . . This stone, which I have set for a pillar, shall
be God's house." Gen. 28:16-22.
How does the psalmist symbolize our need for com-
munion with God? Ps. 42:1.
THINK IT THROUGH
What does it mean to worship? Why does man need
to worship? Is going to church the only way to worship?
"God desires His obedient children
to claim His blessing and to come be-
fore Him with praise and thanksgiving.
. He has done for His chosen people
that which should inspire every heart
with thanksgiving, and it grieves Him
that so little praise is offered. He de-
sires to have a stronger expression
from His people, showing that they
know they have reason for joy and
gladness."---"Testimonies," Vol. 6, page
364.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "The Great Controversy," pages 433-438; "Patriarchs and
Prophets," page 336; "The Desire of Ages," pages 154-166.
30
Part 2
THE NEED AND
PLACE OF WORSHIP
IN THE HOME
Job 1:5
THINK IT THROUGH
Monday
October 18
"Job sent and sanctified them, and rose up early in the
morning, and offered burnt offerings according to the
number of them all."
The experience of Job reveals to all the need and place of
worship in the home. Man is a dependent creature in need of -
assistance in living. We are not only dependent on God for
the air we breathe but also for His protection from danger and
from the forces of evil. Worship is the acknowledgment of this
dependence on God and thanksgiving for God's care over us.
For a Christian home, worship is as essential as the meals and
the shelter that it provides. These provisions are essential for
the physical well-being of the family. Worship is essential for
the spiritual as well as the physical safety of the family.
"Before leaving the house for labor, all the family should
be called together; and the father, or the mother in the fath-
er's absence, should plead fervently with God to keep them
through the day. Come in humility, with a heart full of ten-
derness, and with a sense of the temptations and dangers
before yourselves and your children; by faith bind them upon
the altar, entreating for them the care of the Lord. Ministering
angels will guard children who are thus dedicated to God."
—Child Guidance,
page 519.
What is the Biblical assurance that God will hear and
answer the prayers of parents and children at such ses-
sions of worship? James 5:16?
What are some of the ways by which worship can be
made living and dynamic? What are some of the things
that might discourage a young person in worship?
Finding Joy in Worship
LESSON 4
tians have no family worship. They do
not honor God in the home; they do not
teach their children to love and fear
Him. Many have separated them-
selves so far from Him that they feel
under condemnation in approaching
Him. They cannot 'come boldly unto
the throne of grace,' lifting up holy
hands, without wrath and doubting.'
Hebrews 4:16; 1 Timothy 2:8. They
have not a living connection with God.
Theirs is a form of godliness without
the power."—"Child Guidance," pages
517,518.
"If ever there was a time when
every house should be a house of
prayer, it is now. Infidelity and skep-
ticism prevail. Iniquity abounds. Cor-
ruption flows in the vital currents of
the soul, and rebellion against God
breaks out in the life. Enslaved by sin,
the moral powers are under the tyr-
anny of Satan. The soul is made the
sport of his temptations; and unless
some mighty arm is stretched out to
rescue him, man goes where the arch-
rebel leads the way.
"And yet, in this time of fearful
peril, some who profess to be Chris-
FOR FURTHER
STUDY: "The Ministry of Healing," pages 395-401.
31
Finding Joy in Worship
LESSON 4
Part 3
THE SCRIPTURES
AND WORSHIP
Ps. 119:105
THINK IT THROUGH
Tuesday
October 19
"Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto
my path."
The Scriptures are a revelation of God and His purpose for
man. In order for a person to know what his life on earth is
to mean he must become acquainted with what God has re-
vealed in the Scriptures. There He has had written for our
good the origins of the human race, the reasons for the crea-
tion of man, and the purpose for life. The reason man has
gone so far astray is that he has thwarted the plan and pur-
pose of God for himself. Man realizes that something is wrong
and is endeavoring in every imaginable way to solve his di-
lemma, in many cases without God. For man to regain his lost
estate he must discover
the
perfect plan of God for His creation
and accept that plan as the guide to abundant living. The Bible
reveals not only the plan but also man's problem and the
solution to his problem. The act of worship, whether family
or public, is the way by which man comes face to face with
the will and love of God as revealed in the Scriptures.
"We all need a guide through the many strait places in life
as much as the sailor needs a pilot over the sandy bar or up
the rocky river, and where is this guide to be found? We point
you, dear brethren, to the Bible. Inspired of God, written by
holy men, it points out with great clearness and precision the
duties of both old and young. . . . Take it as the man of your
counsel, the rule of your daily
life."---Testimonies,
Vol. 5, p.
264.
What does the apostle say the Scriptures are good
for? And to what point will they lead in the fulfillment
of God's plan for man? 2 Tim. 3:16, 17.
Should the Scriptures be considered as a book of in-
structions to be followed like a rule book? In what way
will the Bible help me to find the purpose for my life?
"In arousing and strengthening a
love for Bible study, much depends on
the use of the hour of worship. The
hours of morning and evening wor-
ship should be the sweetest and most
helpful of the day. Let it be understood
that into these hours no troubled, un-
kind thoughts are to intrude; that par-
ents and children assemble to meet
with Jesus, and to invite into the home
the presence of holy angels. . . . Let
all join in the Bible reading and learn
and often repeat God's law. It will add
to the interest of the children if they
are sometimes permitted to select the
reading. Question them upon it, and
let them ask questions. . . .
"To make such a service what it
should be, thought should be given to
preparation. And parents should take
time daily for Bible study with their
children. No doubt it will require effort
and planning and some sacrifice to
accomplish this; but the effort will be
richly repaid."—"Education," page 186.
FOR
FURTHER STUDY: "Counsels to Teachers," pages 107-118.
32
Finding Joy in Worship
LESSON 4
Wednesday
October 20
Part 4
"Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days
FAMILY WORSHIP, A shalt thou labor, and do all thy work: but the seventh
PREPARATION FOR day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt
PUBLIC WORSHIP not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter,
thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor
thy stranger that is within thy gates: for in six days the
Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in
them
is,
and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord
Ex. 20:8-11
blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it."
Thus far we have been discussing the place of worship in the
home. However, family worship is not an end in itself but
moves on to a wider form of worship. Worship in the home
may very easily be seen as a preparation for that expanded
worship we experience in the weekly church services. Much of
the spiritual awareness which may be received in Sabbath wor-
ship can be lost through the week as one pursues his livelihood.
The daily worship at home helps to maintain the spiritual
sensitivity which has been gained at such convocations. It
prepares for the coming Sabbath. Too many wait for the last
fleeting moments of the working .part of the week to prepare
physically and spiritually for the Sabbath. It is no wonder that
little is received by some at worship services. When six days
have been filled only with bargaining, work, and television, the
mind cannot shift so quickly to the spiritual.
For what higher worship does the Sabbath worship
in turn prepare us? Isa. 66:22, 23.
THINK IT THROUGH
"To the humble, believing soul, the house of God on earth
is the gate of heaven. The song of praise, the prayer, the words
spoken by Christ's representatives, are God's appointed agen-
cies to prepare a people for the church above, for that loftier -
worship into which there can enter nothing that defileth."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 5, p. 491.
In what ways does the family worship prepare me
for Sabbath worship? Why does the Bible speak so much
about worship?
"We do not obtain a hundredth part shipers. As you enter the place of wor-
of the blessing we should obtain from
ship, ask the Lord to remove all evil
assembling together to worship God. from your heart. Bring to His house
Our perceptive faculties need sharpen-
only that which He can bless. Kneel
ing.. . .
before God in His temple, and conse-
"We must carry to every religious crate to Him His own, which He has
gathering a quickened spiritual con-
purchased with the blood of Christ"—
sciousness that God and His angels are "Testimonies," Vol. 6, pp. 362, 363.
there, cooperating with all true wor-
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "Testimonies," Vol. 6, pp. 349-356.
33
5—A4Qt71
Finding Joy in Worship
LESSON 4
Part 5
SABBATH WORSHIP
Hab. 2:20
Thursday
October 21
"The Lord is in His holy temple: let all the earth keep
silence before Him."
Prepared by our daily worship and private devotions we
now carry that personal relationship with God with us into
the higher worship on the Sabbath. It is a divine appointment
which should be taken seriously. For we as creatures are to
come before the great God who is our loving Father.
In view of this fact, what attitude should characterize
our conduct in the house of God? Eccl. 5:1.
"If some have to wait a few minutes before the meeting
begins, let them maintain a true spirit of devotion by silent
meditation, keeping the heart uplifted to God in prayer that
the
service may be of special benefit to their own Heart's and
lead to the conviction and conversion of other
souls."—Testi-
monies,
Vol. 5, p. 492.
What is the parent's responsibility regarding his chil-
dren and church worship?
"Too often children are allowed to grow up without religion
because their parents think they are too young to have Chris-
tian duties enjoined upon them. . . .
"Parents stand in the place of God to their children to tell
them what they must do and what they must not do with
firmness and perfect self-control. Every effort made for them
with kindness and self-control will cultivate in their characters
the elements of firmness and decision. . . .
"Fathers and mothers are in duty bound to settle this ques-
tion early so that the child will no more think of breaking the
Sabbath, neglecting religious worship and family prayer than
he would think of stealing. Parents' own hands must build the
barrier."—The
Adventist Home,
page 320.
THINK IT THROUGH
Is it true that a family that worships together is in
reality able to solve its differences and problems? Why
is this so?
"The temple of God is opened in
heaven, and the threshold is flushed
with the glory which is for every church
that will love God and keep His corn-
mandments."—"Testimonies," Vol. 6, p.
368.
"Parents, . . . teach them [the chil-
dren] to have the highest reverence for
the house of God and to understand
that when they enter the lord's house
it should be with hearts that are
softened and subdued."—"Ibid.," Vol.
5, p. 494.
FOR FURTHER
STUDY: "Testimonies," Vol. 6, pp. 356-358.
34
Friday
October 22
Part 6
"And He said unto them, The Sabbath was made for
SABBATH OPPORTU- man, and not man for the Sabbath."
NITIES FORiLLMY
AND SERVICE
THINK IT THROUGH
Is there ever an occasion when one may transgress
the Sabbath commandment and not sin? Matt. 12:11, 12.
Aside from the study of His Word, in what other way
may we know about God? Ps. 19:1.
"We are not to teach our children that they must not be
happy on the Sabbath, that it is wrong to walk out-of-doors.
Oh, no. Christ led His disciples out by the lakeside on the
Sabbath day and taught them. His sermons on the Sabbath
were not always preached within enclosed
walls."—Child
Guidance,
pages 533, 534.
"Teach the children to see Christ in nature. Take them out
into the open air, under the noble trees, into the garden; and
in all the wonderful works of creation teach them to see an
expression of His love. ... Do not weary them with long prayers
and tedious exhortations, but through nature's object lessons
teach them obedience to the law of God."—The
Desire of
Ages,
pages 516, 517.
What are good Sabbath missionary activities? How
can I best use the gift of the Sabbath as a means of
developing my Christian experience and that of my
children?
Finding Joy in Worship
LESSON 4
A study of the experience of Christ and His disciples in a
grainfield on the Sabbath brings to mind the greatest lesson
we can learn about the Sabbath.
If the Sabbath was truly made for man, what guidance can
this give us for Sabbath activity? Why was man given a Sab-
bath?
"As the sun goes down, let the voice
of prayer and the hymn of praise mark
the close of the sacred hours and invite
God's presence through the cares of the
week of labor.
"Thus parents can make the Sabbath,
as it should be, the most joyful day of
the week. They can lead their children
to regard it as a delight, the day of
days, the holy of the Lord, honor-
able....
"As long as they live the instruction
given in childhood and youth will be
a blessing."—"Testimonies," Vol. 6, p.
359.
"As God ceased His labor of creat-
ing, and rested upon the Sabbath and
blessed it, so man is to leave the occu-
pations of his daily life, and devote
those sacred hours to healthful rest, to
worship, and to holy deeds."—"The De-
sire of Ages," page 207.
FOR FURTHER
STUDY: "The Ministry of Healitig," pages 409-426.
35
Finding Joy in Worship
LESSON 4
Part 7 G SUMMARY QUESTIONS G TO TEST YOUR STUDY POWER
1.
The core of Christian experience is found in
2.
What promise is made regarding children who are dedicated to the Lord
each morning in family worship>
3.
Parents should take time
for
with their children.
4.
How does family worship contribute to worship on Sabbath?
5.
What responsibility do parents have regarding their children and the
service of the church>
6.
What other study can we enter into on Sabbath besides the study of the
Bible>
(The answers are at the bottom of the page.)
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(g) !S41n14isuas
iummds
mem= schati (v) :6pn4s ama
(E) !marl; pren2
sla2uu (g) :d!risioin
(j) : siamsuV
36
LESSON 5
October 30
DISCIPLINE IN THE MODERN HOME
5
"And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely." Rev. 22:17.
In an age characterized by a general low-
ering of moral standards and a continuing
disregard for law and law enforcement,
parents find value in taking time to think
through the subject of discipline. Here we
have a term used quite commonly by peo-
ple on all levels of society, yet one which
is much misunderstood. While the usual
connotation is that of restraint and force,
to get a valid meaning for discipline we
must see it in its relation to the individual.
A follower requires a leader, and good dis-
cipline is the art of leading.
Wherever there are personal relation-
ships, there must be a place for discipline.
It is for this reason that we should know
what it is and what its objectives are. The
primary objective of the discipline of chil-
dren is to train them for self-government.
It is impossible to think seriously of
training a person for self-government with-
out getting into a discussion of the will.
The training of the will to ensure a per-
son's being able to make intelligent de'ci-
sions should be the first work of parents,
teachers, and others in authority. We shall
spend this week discussing how this idea
of discipline finds a place in the modern
home.
LESSON OUTLINE
1.
Objectives of Discipline
Prov. 22:6
2.
When Should Discipline Begin?
Judges 13:12
3.
Discipline With Consistency
Luke 2:51
4.
When Discipline Corrects
Prov. 13:24
5.
Attitudes in Discipline
Eph. 6:1, 4
6.
Patience in Discipline
Gal. 6:9
37
Discipline in the Modern Home
LESSON 5
Sunday
October 24
Part 1
"Train up a child in the way he shall go: and when
OBJECTIVES OF he is old, he will not depart from it."
DISCIPLINE
Prov. 22:6
How would you distinguish between "training" and
"education"?
"The training of children must be conducted on a different
principle from that which governs the training of irrational
animals. The brute has only to be accustomed to submit to its
master; but the child must be taught to control himself. The
will must be trained to obey the dictates of reason and con-
science. A child may be so disciplined as to have, like the beast,
no will of its own, his individuality being lost in that of his
teacher. Such training is unwise, and its effect disastrous."—
Fundamentals of Christian Education,
page 57.
Is God's government one of coercion? Gen. 2:16,
17; 3:6.
The government of God has no place for coercion. He sets
before us some natural alternatives and then allows us to
choose. Happy the child whose parents help develop in him
this ability to choose.
1).
Give another example of God's dealing with man.
Joshua 24:15.
The child must learn to recognize that in most cases par-
ental restrictions are for his protection. Just as God's love
and His desire for our happiness are the basis for His com-
mandments, so the child must see the parents' love as the
reason for some prohibitions.
THINK IT THROUGH
The freedom which children, at least adolescents, so
much want lies in the right to make decisions. What
process would you follow to develop this freedom in a
child?
"The object of discipline is the train-
should be enlisted on the side of obe-
ing of the child for self-government.
dience. Let all dealing with him be such
He should be taught self-reliance and
as to show obedience to be just and
self-control. Therefore as soon as he is
reasonable."—"Education," page 287.
capable of understanding, his reason
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "Child Guidance," pages 223-228.
38
Part 2
WHEN SHOULD
DISCIPLINE BEGIN?
Judges 13:12
THINK IT THROUGH
Monday
October 25
"And Manoah said, Now let thy words come to pass.
How shall we order the child, and how shall we do unto
him?"
The question Manoah asked typifies the most important
concern a parent may have. It is strange that schools "compass
heaven and earth" for subjects to teach children, but largely
neglect the one profession that the majority enter—parenthood.
It is perhaps significant that the angel's reply to Manoah's
question dealt largely with the conduct. Can you think of
some problems prospective parents should solve in their own
lives before the child is born?
What family problem is represented among the signs
of the last days? 2 Tim. 3:2.
The timing of disciplinary training in the growth of the child
is of utmost importance. When should this training begin?
"The moment that the child begins to choose his own will
and way, that moment his education in discipline is to begin.
This may be called an unconscious education. It is then that
a work, conscious and powerful, is to
begin."—Child. Guidance,
page 230.
What part do parents play in the child's choice con-
cerning salvation?
"It is because so many parents and teachers profess to
believe the Word of God while their lives deny its power, that
the teaching of Scripture has no greater effect upon the youth."
—Education,
page 259.
What relationship does the child's obedience to par-
ents have to future obedience to the law of God?
Discipline in the Modern Home
LESSON 5
own will. Some who go astray because
of neglect in childhood will later,
through the inculcation of practical les-•
sons, come to their senses; but many
are lost forever because in childhood
and youth they received only a partial,
one-sided culture. The child who is
spoiled has a heavy burden to carry
throughout his life."—"Counsels to
Teachers," page 112.
"Parents, you fail generally to begin
your work early enough. You let Satan
preoccupy the soil of the heart by put-
ting in the first crop of seed.
"You have a work to do that Satan
shall not gain the control of your chil-
dren and take them away from you
before they are out of your arms."—
"Child Guidance," page 195.
"It is impossible to depict the evil
that results from leaving a child to its
FOR FURTHER STUDY:
"Child Guidance," pages 229-232.
39
Discipline in the Modern Home
LESSON 5
Tuesday
October 26
Part 3
"And He went down with them, and came to Naza-
DISCIPLINE WTH reth, and was subject unto them: but His mother kept
CONSISTENCY all these sayings in her heart."
Luke 2:51
In today's world, with the emphasis on freedom of choice
and the importance of individual growth, the question of dis-
cipline and its relevancy demands serious consideration. That
discipline is best which prepares for self-government and aids
individual development.
"It is the work of true education to . . . train the youth to
be thinkers, and not mere reflectors of other men's thought.
Instead of confining their study to that which men have said
or written, let students be directed to the sources of truth, to
the vast fields opened for research in nature and revelation.
Let them contemplate the great facts of duty and destiny,
and the mind will expand and
strengthen."—Education,
page 17.
What inconsistency is shown in the experience of Isaac
and Rebekah in dealing with their children? Genesis 27
and 28.
"If the parents are united in this work of discipline, the
child will understand what is required of him. But if the
father, by word or look, shows that he does not approve of
the discipline the mother gives, if he feels that she is too
strict, and thinks that he must make up for the harshness by
petting and indulgence, the child will be ruined. . . . Parents
who are committing this sin against their children are accoun-
table for the ruin of their
souls."—Child Guidance,
page 239..
How did compromise as a "proof" of love work out
in the experience of Aaron? Lev. 10:1, 2.
THINK IT THROUGH
In what ways might parental affection be an obstacle
to true training?
"Aaron's criminal neglect to com-
mand the respect and reverence of his
sons resulted in their death. . . .
"Here is seen the result of loose dis-
cipline. As these sons of Aaron had not
been educated to respect and reverence
the commands of their father, as they
disregarded parental authority, they
did not realize the necessity of ex-
plicitly following the requirements of
God."—"Testimonies," Vol. 3, pp.
294,
295.
FOR FURTHER STUDY:
"Child Guidance," pages 233-243.
40
Discipline in the Modern Home
LESSON 5
Wednesday
October 27
Part 4
"He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that
WHEN DISCIPLINE loveth him chasteneth him betimes."
Prov. 13:24
CORRECTS
subject of considerable controversy. No doubt a connection is
This bit of wisdom from the Proverbs is in modern times a
made in the minds of many with the chastening of the Lord.
1).
THINK IT THROUGH
What purposes do you see in either parental or heav-
enly chastening? Heb. 12:5-11.
"The work of 'breaking the will' is contrary to the principles
of Christ. The will of the child must be directed and guided.
Save all the strength of the will, for the human being needs
it all; but give it proper direction. Treat it wisely and ten-
derly, as a sacred treasure. Do not hammer it in pieces; but
by precept and true example wisely fashion and mold it until
the child comes to years of responsibility."—Counsels
to
Teachers,
page 116.
While there does seem to be a possible connection between
pain and obedience, at least in the small child, the parent faces
the responsibility of determining when his demands are the
result of his own whims and when they are essential to the
child's welfare. We must be sure our correction of children is
not more for ourselves than for the children.
"Never correct your child in anger. An exhibition of passion
on your part will not cure your child's evil temper. That is
the time of all times when you should act with humility and
patience and prayer. Then is the time to kneel down with the
children and ask the Lord for pardon."—Ibid., p. 117.
"Parents have a great work to do in the matter of
correcting and training their children, and in bringing
them to God, and claiming His blessing upon them."
—"Ibid.," page 118.
"If milder measures prove insuffi-
training, and the consequent strength-
cient, punishment that will bring the
ening of wrong tendencies, makes his
child to its senses should in love be
after education more difficult, and
administered. Frequently one such cor-
causes discipline to .be too often a pain-
rection will be enough for a lifetime,
ful process. Painful it must 'be to the
to show the child that he does not hold
lower nature, crossing, as it does, the
the lines of control."—"Counsels to
natural desires and inclinations."—"Ed-
Teachers," page 116.
ucation," pages 295, 296.
"The neglect of the child's earliest
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "Child Guidance," pages 244-257.
41
6-A4Qt71
Discipline in the Modern Home
LESSON 5
Part 5
ATTITUDES IN
DISCIPLINE
Eph. 6:1, 4
Thursday
October 28
"Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is
right." "And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to
wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition
of the Lord."
It should ever be remembered that the child's obedience to
the parent is qualified—"in the Lord." There may come a
time in a child's life when obedience to God will necessitate
the breaking of the family tie. But the parent also has a re-
sponsibility to ensure that his correction is always a step
toward development of a Christian character.
There should be a purpose in all activity related to the
home and children.
"The true teacher is not satisfied with second-rate work.
. . . He cannot be content with imparting to them only tech-
nical knowledge, with making them merely clever accountants,
skillful artisans, successful tradesmen. It is his ambition to
inspire them with principles of truth, obedience, honor, in-
tegrity, and purity—principles that will make them a positive
force for the stability and uplifting of society. He desires
them, above all else, to learn life's great lesson of unselfish
service."—Education,
pages 29, 30.
Perhaps the most difficult question in discipline, especially
when it includes correction and punishment, is that of parental
attitude. What two ingredients are pointed out as essential in
the attitude of the parent?
"Love has a twin sister, which is duty. Love and duty stand
side by side. Love exercised while duty is neglected will make
children headstrong, willful, perverse, selfish, and disobedient.
If stern duty is left to stand alone without love to soften and
win, it will have a similar result. Duty and love must be
blended in order that children may be properly disciplined."
—Testimonies,
Vol.
3,
p. 195.
Should children be recognized as some of the "others"
mentioned in the golden rule? Does this mean they should
get the same treatment as parents? Luke 6:31.
THINK IT THROUGH
Justice and mercy are twin sisters who stand side by
side and should not be separated.
"God's method of government is an
example of how children are to be
trained. There is no oppression in the
Lord's service, and there is to be no
oppression in the home or in the school.
Yet neither parents nor teachers should
allow disregard of their word to pass
unnoticed. Should they neglect to cor-
rect the children for doing wrong, God
will hold them accountable for their
neglect. But let them be sparing of
censure. 'Let kindness be the law of the
home and of the school."—"Counsels
to Teachers," page 155.
FOR FURTHER
STUDY: "Child Guidance," pages 258-268.
42
Discipline in the Modern Home
LESSON 5
Friday
October 29
Part 6
"And let us not be weary in well-doing: for in due
PATIENCE IN season we shall reap, if we faint not."
DISCIPLINE
Gal. 6:9
the work we do outside the family circle. We fail to see our
So many times we reserve the promises of God's Word for
own home as the first and greatest mission field the world
affords. Which do you think would add more members to the
church, all of our children in the church, or the fruit of public
evangelism? Should we give more attention to both?
THINK IT THROUGH
In the first commandment with promise, is there some
responsibility on the part of the parent to be worthy of
the honor due him? Ex. 20:12.
What is said about the wisdom and strength we need
for the duty we must perform? John 15:5.
"Let not one word of fretfulness, harshness, or passion
escape your lips. The grace of Christ awaits your demand. His
Spirit will take control of your heart and conscience, presiding
over your words and deeds. Never forfeit your self-respect by
hasty, thoughtless words. See that your words are pure, your
conversation holy. . . . Let there be peace, pleasant words,
and cheerful countenances.
"Parents cannot with safety be in any way overbearing.
They must not show a masterly, criticizing, faultfinding spirit.
. . . Patient continuance in well-doing is essential if you would
do your duty to your children."—Child
Guidance,
page 219.
What are some of the ways a child may honor his
parents? Summarize your thoughts on true discipline as
you consider the Christian's duty to present to the world
well-ordered, well-disciplined families—families that will
show the power of true Christianity.
"In our efforts to correct evil, we
should guard against a tendency to
faultfinding or censure. Continual cen-
sure bewilders, but does not reform.
With many minds, and often those of
the finest susceptibility, an atmosphere
of unsympathetic criticism is fatal to
effort. Flowers do not unfold under the
breath of a blighting wind."—"Educa-
tion," page 291.
"Parents should keep ever before
their minds the object to be gained—
the perfection of the characters of their
children. Those parents who educate
their children aright, weeding from
their lives every unruly trait, are fitting
them to become missionaries for Christ
in truth, in righteousness, in holiness."
—"Counsels to Teachers," page 162.
FOR
FURTHER STUDY: "Child Guidance," pages 279-287.
43
Discipline in the Modern Home
LESSON 5
Part 7 0 SUMMARY QUESTIONS
O
TO TEST YOUR STUDY POWER
1.
In the small child, obedience is the first step in
2.
Why do youth often disregard the teaching of Scripture)
3.
When parents fail to unite in the work of discipline, what can be the
result?
4.
The use of the rod may at times be necessary in the training of a child,
but it should be used only in "
and
5.
While children are taught obedience to their parents, fathers are instructed
that they should not
their children to anger.
6.
The work of rearing a family requires a great deal of
on the
part of the parents.
(The answers are at the bottom of the page.)
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MAKING SPIRITUAL VALUES RELEVANT
LESSON 6
November 6
"And this is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and
Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent." John 17:3.
God wants us to know Him. That is why
He desires to live with us and in us. He,
the Source of all life, has three dwelling
places: Heaven is His throne, the center
of His universe (Ps. 103:19) ; a church
built by man and dedicated to God is His
sanctuary where He can meet with His
people (Ex. 25:8) ; but the human body
enables Him to have a daily, personal
touch with each individual (1 Cor. 3:16,
17). Spiritual things are conceived in the
mind. "The brain nerves which communi-
cate with the entire system are the only
medium through which Heaven can com-
municate to man and affect his inmost
life."—Testimonies,
Vol. 2, p. 347. We
think about what we see, hear, taste, smell,
and feel. "All should guard the senses, lest
Satan gain victory over them; for these
are the avenues to the
soul."—Ibid.,
Vol. 3,
p. 507.
KEY THOUGHTS
1.
Spiritual Values Are Real.
To some
the word "spiritual" seems so ambiguous,
so vague, so completely divorced from
reality that it is meaningless. The aim of
this study is to see how spirituality is re-
lated to daily living. A spiritual family is
an active, working family. It is not a pas-
sive group; it is not people in a trance. It
is cheerful and happy company, not sad
and gloomy association.
2.
How to Live.
Christ must live in me.
Col. 1:27. If Christ is in me, I will be a
delightful person in the home. All my fac-
ulties will be used to enrich and benefit
others. I will do my best to love them more
than they love me.
3.
How to Die.
I live for self. The more
I think of my rights, my needs, my desires,
the less I will think of Christ. The less I
think of Him, the more selfish I become.
Selfishness cuts off my connection with the
Source of life. Rom. 8:6.
LESSON OUTLINE
1.
The Mind
Prov. 23:7
2.
The Sense of Sight
2 Cor. 3:18
3.
The Sense of Hearing
Luke 8:17, 18
4.
The Sense of Taste
Ps. 136:25
5.
The Sense of Smell
Ps. 45:8
6.
The Sense of Touch
Luke 15:20
45
Part 1
THE MIND
Prov. 23:7
Sunday
October 31
"For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he."
"Even the thoughts are not to be allowed to run riot. They
must be restrained, brought into captivity to the obedience
of Christ."—The
Ministry of Healing,
page 491. "The great
deceiver hopes so to confuse the minds of men and women
that none but his voice will be •
heard."—Medical Ministry,
page 111. Ignorance of the Scriptures causes confusion, but
"the entrance of Thy words giveth light; it giveth understand-
ing unto the simple." Ps. 119:130.
God has given to man the governing power of decision.
"Everything depends on the right action of the will. . . .
Many will go down to ruin while hoping and desiring to over-
come their evil propensities. . . . They do not
choose
to serve
Him."—The
Ministry of Healing,
page 176. No one can blame
Satan, the relatives, or the neighbors for his own sin. "No man
without his own consent can be overcome by Satan. The
tempter has no power to control the will or to force the soul
to
sin."—The Great Controversy,
page 510.
Making Spiritual Values Relevant
LESSON 6
How does one control his thinking and keep his mind
alert? Ps. 19:7.
The emotions, good or bad, have a tremendous effect on the
mind. "The depressing and even ruinous effect of anger, dis-
content, selfishness, or impurity, and, on the other hand, the
marvelous life-giving power to be found in cheerfulness, un-
selfishness, gratitude, should also be
shown."—Education,
page
197. Watching TV too much or reading aimlessly causes the
mind to become weak and inactive. "Castle-building depraves
the
mind."—Testimonies,
Vol. 2, p. 429. "Many an inmate of
the insane asylum, has become such through the habit of novel
reading."—The
Ministry of Healing,
page 446.
Parents are to train their children in the use of their mental
powers. "It is during the first years of a child's life that his
mind is most susceptible to impressions either good or evil.
During these years decided progress is made in either a right
direction or a wrong
one."—Counsels to Teachers,
page 132.
"The mother must be mind for her child. The first three years
is the time in which to bend the tiny
twig."—Child Guidance,
page 194.
THINK IT THROUGH
Who is responsible for the thoughts I think? Why do
I think the thoughts I do?
"You will have to become a faithful mind and prevent vain and corrupt
sentinel over your eyes, ears, and all
thoughts from staining your soul."—
your senses if you would control your "Testimonies," Vol. 2, p. 561.
FOR FURTHER
STUDY: "Testimonies," Vol. 4, pp. 202, 499; Vol. 3, pp. 133, 134;
Vol. 7, p. 168.
46
Part 2
THE SENSE
OF SIGHT
2 Cor. 3:18
Monday
November I
"But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass
the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image
from glory to glory even as by the Spirit of the Lord."
The Christian home will be attractive, and will create a
love for the beautiful. "God loves the beautiful. . . . He desires
us to surround our homes with the beauty of natural things."
—The Ministry of Healing,
page 370. The colors should har-
monize; the house must be clean and orderly, with everything
in its place when not in use. Pictures, curtains, and decorations
add loveliness and beauty; plants and flowers, fragrance and
charm. The home should be inviting to each member of the
family—a cozy place in which to live and relax, not a museum
to be observed only.
Making Spiritual Values Relevant
LESSON 6
What admonition should govern all aspects of a
Christian home? 1 Cor. 14:40.
Since we think about that which we see, the TV programs,
photos, and pictures should be selected to create respect for
man and reverence for God. Books, magazines, and other read-
ing materials will be chosen to bring pleasure, enrich knowl-
edge, and inspire each member of the family.
The facial expression reveals our emotions. That smile on
the face says plainly, "Christ is in the heart."
"Smile, parents; smile, teachers. If your heart is sad, let
not your face reveal the
fact."—Child Guidance,
page 148.
A neat and tidy appearance is attractive to our loved ones.
It is very hard for a wife who looks sad, disheartened, and
unkempt to be the queen of the home. When love is in the
heart, the whole appearance is attractive.
THINK IT THROUGH
Does my home look like a Christian home?
"While there are weighty responsi-
bilities devolving upon the parents to
guard carefully the future happiness
and interests of their children, it is also
their duty to make home as attractive
as possible."—"The Adventist Home,"
page 21.
"The home should be to the children
the most attractive place in the world,
and the mother's presence should be
its greatest attraction."—"The Ministry
of Healing," page 388.
"While we are to guard against
needless adornment and display, we
are in no case to be careless and in-
different in regard to outward appear-
ance. All about our persons and our
homes is to be neat and attractive."
—"The Adventist Home," page 22.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "Testimonies to Ministers," pages 388-390; "Christ's Object
Lessons," page 67.
47
Making Spiritual Values Relevant
LESSON 6
El
Tuesday
November 2
Part 3
"For nothing is secret, that shall not be made mani-
THE SENSE OF fest; neither anything hid, that shall not be known and
HEARING come abroad. Take heed therefore how ye hear."
Luke 8:17, 18
What kind of words are to be spoken in the home?
"Let only pleasant words be spoken by parents to their
children, and respectful words by children to their parents.
Attention must be given to these things in the home life."—
The Adventist Home,
page 437.
The tone of voice means everything. The Christian's voice
should be cheerful, courageous, and inspiring. "There will be
no loud, angry talking in the home. The words will be of a
character to soothe and bless the hearer. . . . Take all the
ugly features out of the voice."—Ibid., p. 436.
How important is it that we place a close watch on
our conversations? Matt. 12:37.
Words are the photographs of the character. Words become
a part of us. The daily conversation in the home gives a
clearer picture of one's true character than a premeditated
speech. "Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speak-
eth." Matt. 12:34.
There are other sounds in the home which must be guarded.
While the TV, radio, and record player make it possible to
bring some of the best music into the home, these media are
also capable of bringing the worst. "Music, when not abused,
is a great blessing; but when put to a wrong use, it is a
terrible
curse."—Testimonies,
Vol. 1, p. 497.
Parents, and not inexperienced youth, are the ones to select
the music of the home. Children must be taught how to choose,
and parents should see that their children hear good music
that is appropriate to their ages.
THINK IT THROUGH
Does my home sound like a Christian home?
"The value of song as a means of
education should never be lost sight of.
Let there be singing in the home, of
songs that are sweet and pure, and
there will be fewer words of censure
and more of cheerfulness and hope
and joy."—"Education," page 168.
"Evening and morning join with your
children in God's worship, reading His
Word and singing His praise."—"Evan-
gelism," page 499.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "The Adventist Home," pages 406-409; "Education," page
21; "Patriarchs and Prophets," page 51.
48
Making Spiritual Values Relevant
LESSON 6
Part 4
THE SENSE OF TASTE
Ps. 136:25
Wednesday
November 3
"Who giveth food to all flesh: for His mercy endureth
forever."
The dining table offers delightful ways of learning about
the goodness of God. All our needs will be supplied (Phil.
4:19) ; our bread and water will be sure (Isa. 33:16) ; He is
the giver of all good and perfect gifts (James 1:17). We bow
our heads and thank Him for all His bounties. God put flavor
in food and •taste buds in our mouths that we might enjoy
food. He is honored when good, wholesome food is served in
an appetizing manner to a happy, thankful family.
In what frame of mind should the meals be eaten?
Prov. 17:22.
"Let mealtime be a cheerful, happy time. As we enjoy the
gifts of God, let us respond by grateful praise to the Giver."
—The Ministry of Healing,
page 385.
"Regularity in eating should be carefully observed. Nothing
should be eaten between meals, no confectionery, nuts, fruits,
or food of any kind. Irregularities in eating destroy the health-
ful tone of the digestive organs, to the detriment of health
and cheerfulness."—Ibid., p. 384.
"Parents should train the appetites of their children, and
should not permit the use of unwholesome foods. But in the
effort to regulate the diet, we should •be careful not to err in
requiring children to eat that which is distasteful, or to eat
more than is needed. Children have rights, they have prefer-
ences, and when these preferences are reasonable they should
be respected."—/bid.
"It is a religious duty for those who cook to learn how to
prepare healthful food in different ways, so that it may be
eaten with
enjoyment."—Testimonies,
Vol. 1, p. 682.
What indicates that man's original diet was balanced
for his enjoyment? Gen. 6:21.
THINK IT THROUGH
What importance is given to the culinary arts and
dietetic requirements in my home?
"Mothers should teach their children
making organs. It is highly essential
how to cook. What branch of the edu-
that the art of cookery be considered
cation of a young lady can be so im-
one of the most important branches of
portant as this? The eating has to do education. . . . Knowledge of how to
with the life. Scanty, impoverished, ill-
prepare food healthfully, especially
cooked food is constantly depraving bread, is no mean science."—"Testi-
the blood by weakening the blood-
monies," Vol. 1, p. 682.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "Testimonies," Vol. 2, pp. 69, 383, 487, 488; Vol. 1, pp.
486, 681.
49
7—A4Qt71
Making Spiritual Values Relevant
LESSON 6.
Part 5
THE SENSE OF SMELL
Ps. 45:8
Thursday
November 4
"All thy garments smell of myrrh, and aloes, and
cassia, out of the ivory palaces, whereby they have
made thee glad."
There is a clean fresh smell around the 'Christian home that
invites the angels. God perfumed the air and gave nostrils to
man to add to his joy. Man's first home was amid majestic
trees, graceful shrubs, and delicate flowers. Homes surrounded
with flowers and fragrant blossoms create a desire to live.
"Cleanliness, neatness, and order are indispensable to the
proper management of the household. . . .
"Believers should be taught that even though they may be
poor, they need not be unclean or untidy in their persons or
in their homes. . . . They are to be taught that those who are
to represent the high and holy God must keep their souls pure
and clean, and that this purity must extend to their dress and
to everything in the home."—The
Adventist Home,
pages
21, 22.
How can one avoid air pollution?
With so much tobacco smoke indoors and fumes from auto-
mobiles and factories outdoors, the air around our large cities
is becoming more and more polluted. "Whenever possible, it
is the duty of parents to make homes in the country for their
children."—Country
Living,
page 12. "Fathers and mothers
who possess a piece of land and a comfortable home are kings
and
queens."—Fundamentals of Christian. Education,
page
327.
"The physical surroundings in the cities are often a peril to
health. The constant liability to contact with disease, the prev-
alence of foul air, impure water, impure food, the crowded,
dark, unhealthful dwellings, are some of the many evils to be
met."—The
Ministry of Healing,
page 365.
Why did the tabernacle have an altar of sweet in-
cense? 'Ex. 30:1, 7, 8; 37:29.
THINK IT THROUGH
Does my home have the fragrance of a Christian
home?
"The home of our first parents was
to be a pattern for other homes as their
children should go forth to occupy the
earth. That home, beautified by the
hand of God Himself, was not a gor-
geous palace. . . . God placed Adam
in a garden. This was his dwelling.
The blue heavens were its dome; the
earth, with its delicate flowers and car-
pet of living green, was its floor; and
the leafy branches of the goodly trees
were its canopy."—"Patriarchs and
Prophets," page 49.
FOR
FURTHER STUDY: "The Ministry of Healing," pages 279, 280; "Testimonies,"
Vol. 6, p. 170.
50
Making Spiritual Values Relevant
LESSON 6
Friday
November 5
Part 6
"When he was yet a great way off, his father saw
THE SENSE OF him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck,
TOUCH and kissed him."
Luke 15:20
The sweetest way to expressing love is through the sense of
touch. Touching the hand, lips, embracing the companion,
draws husband and wife closer to each other and closer to
God. The sense of touch should not be divorced from love,
nor should it be used wholly independently of the other four
senses.
When and why should parents touch their children?
The baby needs to be rocked, cuddled, and held in the arms.
This is one reason why breast-fed babies do better as a rule
than those who are bottle-fed. The toddler needs a lap to
hold him when he is tired or lonesome. The nervous, restless
child is often soothed into slumber by the gentle touch of
mother's hand on his spine. Teen-agers need to feel father's
strong arm about them, mother's loving kiss to assure them
their parents still love and appreciate them.
What kind of "touch" therapy do children need at
times? Prov. 19:18.
"A great wrong is done our children when we permit their
faults to go uncorrected."—Child
Guidance,
page 236. This
form of touching is unique. When administered in love it
corrects a fault, strengthens the child's willpower and draws
the child closer to his parent. When given in anger it creates
resentment, makes the child rebellious, and builds a wall be-
tween parent and child.
All punishment is for the future, not the past. We are seek-
ing to help the child develop self-control.
THINK IT THROUGH
How can I cultivate love in my home?
"There are many who regard the sion. Let not the heart of one connected
expression of love as a weakness, and with you starve for the want of kind-
they maintain a reserve that repels
ness and sympathy. . . . Continue the
others. This spirit checks the current of
early attentions. In every way encour-
sympathy. As the social and generous
age each other in fighting the battles
impulses are repressed, they wither,
of life. Study to advance the happiness
and the heart becomes desolate and
of each other. 'Let there be mutual love,
cold. We should beware of this error.
mutual forbearance.—"The Ministry of
Love cannot long exist without expres-
Healing," page 360.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "Testimonies," Vol.
4,
p. 224; Vol. 5, pp. 123, 124; Vol. 7,
pp. 49, 50.
51
Making Spiritual Values Relevant
LESSON 6
Part 7 G SUMMARY QUESTIONS G TO TEST YOUR STUDY POWER
1. "The thoughts . . . must be
brought into
to the
of Christ."
2. True or False:
The Christian home will be attractive
A Christian's face is always solemn
Neatness has little to do with one's character
3. By what is each one to be justified or condemned?
4. Select:
a.
Mealtime is the time to eat, not talk
b.
Mealtime is the time to be cheerful
c.
Children should be forced to eat what is good for them
d.
Children should be allowed within reason to select what they de-
sire
5. How can one avoid air pollution?
6. Why should we beware of the error of regarding the expression of love
as a weakness?
(The answers are at the bottom of the page.)
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4
THE HOME-PRIMARY CENTER OF EDUCATION
7
LESSON 7
"And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole
spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord
Jesus Christ." 1 Thess. 5:23.
No discussion of education could be
fruitful if we failed to think first of its
primary objective. The knowledge of God
and Christ is the final reason for educa-
tion. "Higher than the highest human
thought can reach is God's ideal for His
children. Godliness—godlikeness—is the
goal to be
reached."—Education,
page 18.
There need be no limit to our ambition in
the matter of education, so long as it is
tempered by this supreme objective.
The home and the school have no more
important function than inspiring the
youth to develop every talent and ability
to its highest level, that they may be used
in the service of God. Great care must be
taken in talking about self-abnegation, lest
the impression be given that we should
make no effort to be people of value to
the world. There is a definite place for
recognizing the true position of self, but
never should it obscure the fact that we
were created in the image of God, and
that we have a duty to develop God-given
faculties.
It is important also to recognize what
teaching really is. We would distort the
true picture of the teacher should we por-
tray him as one who ceaselessly pours into
unwilling minds vast numbers of facts.
The teacher, be it the mother in the home
or the instructor in the school, serves as
a guide in multitudes of learning experi-
ences. The learning has to be a personal
experience. Parents who take their teach-
ing responsibilities seriously will remember
that teaching is both voluntary and in-
voluntary. The child learns from example
as well as precept.
LESSON OUTLINE
1. Home, the Foundation for
Education
Luke 1:80
2. The First School
Deut. 6:6, 7
3. Educating the Whole Person
1 Thess. 5:23
4. Importance of a Trade
2 Kings 6:1, 2
5. Make Scripture Basic
Prov. 2:1-5
6. God's Second Book
Isa. 40:28-31
53
The Home—Primary Center of Education
LESSON 7
Sunday
November 7
Part 1
"And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and
HOME, THE was in the deserts till the day of his showing unto Israel."
FOUNDATION
FOR EDUCATION
Luke 1:80
wisdom, the Lord planned that John would receive his educa-
tion. The home was his school, and the vastness of the desert
The parents of John lived in the country, where, in His
his opportunity to become acquainted with God.
Not all parents today are required to live in the desert, but
every parent should recognize a distinct obligation to make
the home the first school of the child. In effect, the home is
the matrix where are molded the values that will be held later,
and where is developed the personality which will mark the
child in his mature years.
What advice did Paul give to parents with respect to
their children? Eph. 6:4.
The home should be the base for educating children.
"It is in the home that the education of the child is to
begin. Here is his first school. Here, with his parents as in-
structors, he is to learn the lessons that are to guide him
throughout life—lessons of respect, obedience, reverence, self-
control. The educational influences of the home are a decided
power for good or for evil. . . . If the child is not instructed
aright here, Satan will educate him through agencies of his
choosing."—Counsels
to Teachers,
page 107.
THINK IT THROUGH
What kind of setting have I provided for the charac-
ters my children are forming?
"Jesus came to this earth to accom-
plish the greatest work ever accom-
plished among men. He came as God's
ambassador, to show us how to live
so as to secure life's best results. What
were the conditions chosen by the in-
finite Father for His Son? A secluded
home in the Galilean hills; a household
sustained by honest, self-respecting
labor; a life of simplicity; daily conflict
with difficulty and hardship; self-sacri-
fice, economy, and patient, gladsome
service; the hour of study at His moth-
er's side, with the open scroll of Scrip-
ture . . . —these were the conditions
and opportunities of the early life of
Jesus."—"The Ministry of Healing,"
pages 365,366.
"John was the son of their old age,
he was a child of miracle, and the par-
ents might have reasoned that he had
a special work to do for the Lord and
the Lord would take care of him. But
the parents did not thus reason; they
moved to a retired place in the country,
where their son would not be exposed
to the temptations of city life, or in-
duced to depart from the counsel and
instruction which they as parents would
give him. They acted their part in de-
veloping a character in the child that
would in every way meet the purpose
for which God had designed his life....
They sacredly fulfilled their obligation."
—"Child Guidance," page 23.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "The Adventist Home ," pages 177-186.
54
Part 2
THE FIRST
SCHOOL
Deut. 6:6, 7
THINK IT THROUGH
El Monday
November 8
"And these words, which I command thee this day,
shall be in thine heart: and thou shalt teach them dili-
gently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when
thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by
the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou
risest up."
Whether by design of the parents or not, the home is by its
very nature the child's first school. The attitude of the parents
toward each other and toward the children, and indeed in
relation to all men, cannot be hidden from the child. The
parents also have the advantage, as teachers, of being with the
children in all of the basic activities of life, and have a won-
derful opportunity to tie lessons designed for spiritual growth
into the everyday activities.
What are some of the lessons the child should learn,
beyond the stories of the Bible?
"Teach the children and youth to respect themselves, to be
true to God, true to principle; teach them to respect and obey
the law of God."—The
Adventist Home,
page 16.
Review the lives of some of the great men of the Bible,
thinking of the time spent with their mothers as a part of their
preparation for their life work. Moses (Ex. 2:9, 10). Samuel
(1 Sam. 1:24-28). Notice how Zacharias and Elisabeth met
their responsibilities (Luke 1:5-15, 57-63).
"An angel from heaven came to instruct Zacharias and
Elisabeth as to how they should train and educate their child,
so as to work in harmony with God in preparing a messenger
to announce the coming of Christ. As parents they were to
faithfully cooperate with God in forming such a character
in John as would fit him to perform the part God had as-
signed him as a competent worker. . . .
"They acted their part in developing a character in the
child that would in every way meet the purpose for which
God had designed his
life."—Child Guidance,
pages 22, 23.
How can I learn to associate spiritual lessons with
the daily experiences of life?
The Home—Primary Center of Education
LESSON 7
"Let not home education be regarded
as a secondary matter. It occupies the
first place in all true education. Fathers
and mothers have entrusted to them
the molding of their children's minds."
"Child Guidance," page 18.
"In the divine plan of education as
adapted to man's condition after the
FOR 'FURTHER STUDY: "Child Guidance,"
Fall, Christ stands as the representative
of the Father, the connecting link be-
tween God and man; He is the great
Teacher of mankind. And He ordained
that men and women should be His
representatives. The family was the
school, and the parents were the teach-
ers."—"Education," page 33.
pages 17-25.
55
The Home—Primary Center of Education
LESSON 7
Part 3
EDUCATING THE
WHOLE PERSON
1 Thess. 5:23
Tuesday
November
9
"And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and
I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be pre-
served blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus
Christ."
The best way to find the complete sanctification for which
Paul prayed is through the learning process that must begin
early in life.
"Let those composing the family circle pray that God will
sanctify their tongues, their ears, their eyes, and every member
of their body. ...
"How many dishonor Christ and misrepresent His char-
acter in the home circle! How many do not manifest patience,
forbearance, forgiveness, and true love
!"—The Adventist Home,
pages 177, 178.
How is the development of the young Jesus de-
scribed? Luke 2:52.
"Children and youth should begin early to seek •God; for
early habits and impressions will frequently exert a powerful
influence upon the life and character. . . . Be careful how you
build, and what kind of material you put into the building.
The characters you are now forming will be lasting as eternity.
"Let Jesus take possession of your mind, your heart, and
your affections; and work as Christ worked, doing conscien-
tiously the home duties, little acts of self-denial and deeds
of kindness, employing the moments diligently, keeping a
careful watch against little sins and a grateful heart for little
blessings, and you will have at last such a testimony for
yourself as was given of . . . Christ: 'And Jesus increased in
wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and
man."—Ibid.,
p. 297.
THINK IT THROUGH
How may I be sure that I am following God's plan in
directing the growth and development of my children?
"Though He increased in knowldege,
and the grace of God was upon Him,
yet He did not become lifted up in
pride, or feel that He was above doing
the most humble toil. He took His share
of the burden, together with His father,
mother, and brethren. He toiled to sus-
tain the family, and shared in
the
work
that would meet the expenses of the
household. Though His wisdom had as-
tonished the doctors, yet He meekly
subjected Himself to His human guard-
ians, bore His part of the family bur-
dens, and worked with His own hands
as any toiler would work."—Ellen G.
White Comments, "SDA Bible Com-
mentary," Vol. 5, p. 1117.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "The Sanctified Life," pages 7-14.
56
The Home—Primary Center of Education
LESSON 7
Wednesday
November 10
"And the sons of the prophets said unto Elisha, Be-
hold now, the place where we dwell with thee is too
strait for us. Let us go, we pray thee, unto Jordan, and
take thence every man a beam, and let us make us a
place there, where we may dwell. And he answered,
Go ye."
In the education of the Israelites, much attention was given
to training each child in some practical trade. No matter what
role he might follow in later life, he was always capable of
supporting himself by his hands.
Part 4
IMPORTANCE
OF A TRADE
2'Kings 6:1, 2
What is said about the necessity of teaching the youth
the dignity of labor?
"It [labor] is still a source of happiness and development.
. . . The youth should be led to see the true dignity of la-
bor. . . . All things in nature do •their allotted work. Action
pervades the whole creation, and in order to fulfill our mis-
sion we, too, must be
active."—Education,
page 214.
Men of •the Bible who worked with their hands:
David—a shepherd boy
Paul—a tentmaker
Moses—a sheepherder
Gideon—a farmer
Noah—a shipwright
Peter—a fisherman
Jesus—a carpenter
Abel—a shepherd
Jacob—a stockman
Elisha—a farmer
Women of the Bible who worked at menial tasks:
Martha—a cook and housekeeper Miriam—a baby-sitter
Dorcas—a seamstress
Rebecca—a water carrier
Ruth—a gleaner
Rachel—a sheepherder
Can you think of others? How do you think manual labor
prepared these people for their later work?
What specific result mentioned comes to those who
till the fields? Isa. 28:23-26.
THINK IT THROUGH
How might I make my example and conversation
such as to glorify the meaning of work to my children?
"The minister, the missionary, the
teacher, will find their influences with
the people greatly increased when it
is manifest that they possess the knowl-
edge and skill required for the prac-
tical duties of everyday life. . . . The
ability to prepare food, to deal with
FOR FURTHER STUDY:
"Education," pages 214, 222.
57
accidents and emergencies, to treat
disease, to build a house, or a church
if need be—often these make all the
difference between success and failure
in his lifework."—"Education," page
221.
The Home—Primary Center of Education
LESSON 7
Thursday
November 11
Part 5
"My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide
MAKES SCRIPTURE my commandments with thee; so that thou incline thine
BASIC ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understand-
ing; . . . then shalt thou understand the fear of the
Prov. 2:1-5 Lord, and find the knowledge of God."
This lesson points to a knowledge of God as the end and
purpose of education. This is the true wisdom which should
motivate all our educational effort. While we cannot forget
the necessity of learning in many fields in order to take our
place in this complex world, we must never lose sight of the
basic nature of Scripture as the foundation for other studies.
"The knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ expressed in
character is an exaltation above everything else that is esteemed
on earth or in heaven. It is the very highest education. It is
the key that opens the portals of the heavenly city. This knowl-
edge it is God's purpose that all who put on Christ shall pos-
sess."—The
Ministry of Healing,
page 457.
What is another reason for making a study of Scrip-
ture basic in the experience of the child, and a genuine
practice in the home? Ps. 119:11.
THINK IT THROUGH
"There were some who sought His society, feeling at peace
in His presence; but many avoided Him, because they were
rebuked by His stainless life. Young companions urged Him
to do as they did. He was bright and cheerful; they enjoyed
His presence, and welcomed His ready suggestions; but they
were impatient at His scruples, and pronounced Him narrow
and straitlaced. Jesus answered, It is written, 'Wherewithal
shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto
according to Thy word.'
"—The Desire of Ages,
page 89.
"There was in Him nothing that responded to Satan's
sophistry. He did not consent to sin. Not even by a thought
did He yield to temptation. . . . By what means did He over-
come in the conflict with Satan? By the Word of God."—
Ibid.,
p.
123.
In what ways might I reveal the purpose of God as
shown in the Bible, in my everyday living before my
children?
"As a preparation for teaching His
precepts, God commands that they be
hidden in the hearts of the parents.
'These words, which I command thee
this day, shall be in thine heart,' He
says; 'and thou shalt teach them dili-
gently.' . . . In order to interest our
children in the Bible, we ourselves must
be interested in it. To awaken in them
a love for its study, we must love it.
Our instruction to them will have only
the weight of influence given it by our
own example and spirit."—"Educa-
tion," page 187.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "Education," pages 33-44.
58
The Home—Primary Center of Education
LESSON 7
Friday
November 12
Part 6
"Host thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the
GOD'S SECOND everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of
BOOK the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no
searching of His understanding. He giveth power to the
faint; and to them that have no might He increaseth
strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and
the young men shall utterly fall: but they that wait upon
the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount
up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be
Isa. 40:28-31
weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."
Of all the lessons that can be learned from a study of nature,
none can be a greater benefit than the realization of the power
and the love of God. The realization of God as the Creator
makes our own re-creation seem so simple.
1).
What are some lessons to be learned from Ps. 19:1-3?
THINK IT THROUGH
"Even now all created things declare the glory of His ex-
cellence. There is nothing, save the selfish heart of man, that
lives unto itself. No bird that cleaves the air, no animal that
moves upon the ground, but ministers to some other life. There
is no leaf of the forest, or lowly blade of grass, but has its
ministry. Every tree and shrub and leaf pours forth that
element of life without which neither man nor animal could
live ; and man and animal, in turn, minister to the life of tree
and shrub and leaf. The flowers breathe fragrance and unfold
their beauty in blessing to the world. The sun sheds its light
to gladden a thousand worlds. The ocean, itself the source of
all our springs and fountains; receives the streams from every
land, but takes to give. The mists ascending from its bosom
fall in showers to water the earth, that it may bring forth
and bud."—The
Desire of Ages,
pages 20, 21.
How can I instill both a love of nature and an appre-
ciation of God through its study in my children?
"To the little child, not yet capable
great laws that guide alike the star
of learning from the printed page or and the atom control human life. The
of being introduced to the routine of
laws that govern the heart's action,
the schoolroom, nature presents an un-
regulating the flow of the current of
failing source of instruction and de-
life to the body, are the laws of the
light. The heart not yet hardened by
mighty Intelligence that has the juris-
contact with evil is quick to recognize
diction of the soul. From Him all life
the Presence that pervades all created proceeds. Only in harmony with Him
things."—"Education," page 100.
can be found its true sphere of action."
"The same power that upholds na-
—"Ibid.," p. 99.
ture, is working also in man. The same
FOR FURTHER
STUDY: "Education," pages 99-112.
59
09
Answers: (1) home; (2) everyday; (3) body, soul, and spirit;
(4)
practical; (5) hide the
Word
in the heart; (6) nature.
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LESSON 8
November
20
HEALTH VALUES IN THE HOME
8
"Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health,
even as thy soul prospereth." 3 John 2.
The concern of our Lord is not solely for
the souls of men. Through the apostle John
He expressed a like concern for the phys-
ical health, "even as thy soul prospereth."
While recognizing God's interest in our
maintaining good health, we must also
realize the important part the mind and
feelings of men have in affecting the rest
of the body.
Surely there is no place as important as
the Christian home for training in health
principles. It is in the home that the child
is trained for future usefulness. The Chris-
tian, therefore, in all of his home life
should exemplify those health principles
which demonstrate his belief that the body
is the temple of the Holy Spirit.
We must ever keep before children by
precept and example the need to care for
the body. We must teach them sound prin-
ciples which will go far toward protecting
them against the inroads of disease.
How careful we should be to make it
plain that certain restrictions which the
Christian observes are not merely religious
observances. Of course we have an obliga-
tion to God to preserve health. Children
ask for the reasons on which we base our
instructions, and they can see the argu-
ments for rules which will maintain health.
But if we present these only as arbitrary
commands, we may not have an enthu-
siastic following.
As we study the subject of health this
week, let us do so with an eye on the mir-
ror, determining how well we are setting
the example of healthful living that we
hope our children will follow.
LESSON OUTLINE
1.
Knowledge Is Necessary
Gen. 18:19
2.
Temperate in All Things
1 Cor. 9:24, 25
3.
The Case for Abstinence
Rom. 12:1, 2
4.
Importance of Diet
1 Cor. 3:17
5.
Rest and Recreation
Mark 6:31
6.
Sacrificial Living
Isa. 6:6-8
61
Health Values in the Home
LESSON 8
Sunday
November 14
Part 1
"I know him, that he will command his children and
KNOWLEDGE IS his household after him."
NECESSARY
Gen. 18:19
of whom God could say, "I know him, that he will command
How fortunate is the child who has parents like Abraham,
his children and his household." But in being like Abraham,
it is necessary to have the knowledge that makes the command-
ing effective to the salvation of the child. This knowledge
Abraham had.
"Some mothers are not uniform in the treatment of their
children. At times they indulge them to their injury, and again
they refuse some innocent gratification that would make the
childish heart very happy. In this they do not imitate Christ."
—The Ministry of Healing,
page 390.
Among the other things which a child should learn as a part
of Christian living is the study of physiology.
"Parents should early seek to interest their children in the
study of physiology and should teach them its simpler prin-
ciples. Teach them how best to preserve the physical, mental,
and spiritual powers, and how to use their gifts so that their
lives may bring blessing to one another and honor to God.
This knowledge is invaluable to the young. An education in
the things that concern life and health is more important to
them than a knowledge of many of the sciences taught in the
schools."—Ibid., pp. 385, 386.
The parent who does not have this knowledge will find it
difficult to try to lead his children into habits of good living.
He will lack a basis for making the requirements of healthful
living reasonable.
What effect did a knowledge of the body have on
the psalmist? Ps. 139:14.
What is the strongest incentive to adopting a good
health regimen? 1 Cor. 3:17.
THINK IT THROUGH
What does a recognition of my body as the temple of
the living God do for me?
"The knowledge that man is to be
a temple for God, a habitation for the
revealing of His glory, should be the
highest incentive to the care and devel-
opment of our physical powers. Fear-
fully and wonderfully has the Creator
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "Child
Guidance," pages 360-366.
62
wrought in the human frame, and He
bids us make it our study, understand
its needs, and act our part in preserv-
ing it from harm and defilement."—
"The Ministry of Healing," page 271.
Health Values in the Home
LESSON 8
Monday
November 15
"Know ye not that they which run in a race run all,
but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.
And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate
in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible
crown; but we an incorruptible."
Paul's discussion of temperance is well illustrated by point-
ing to the runners in the Olympic games. No doubt the games
were as avidly followed by some in his day as they are today.
These runners were looked upon with admiration then, as
athletes are today.
How fitting that young people, particularly, should think
of the rewards of healthful living! Beyond immediate benefits
there are eternal goals for us as compared to the fading laurel
wreath given to the victor in the ancient games. See
SDA
Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6, p. 1089, and compare 2 Tim. 4:8.
It is important to know the relationship that exists between
temperance, temptation, and sin. "The diet has much to do
with the disposition to enter into temptation and commit sin."
—Counsels on Diet and Foods,
page 52.
While we often think of temperance in a special context,
that of the use of alcohol, tobacco, and narcotics, we might do
well to use a different word for these things—abstinence. We
really do not teach the temperate use of these things; to
understand this point better we shall give further considera-
tion to that phase of the question in part 3 of this lesson.
Part 2
TEMPERATE IN
ALL THINGS
1 Cor. 9:24, 25
What is Paul's attitude toward diet and toward our
judgment of the diet of others? Romans 14.
THINK IT THROUGH
Is my practice of temperance principles consistent,
even in my working and playing?
"Many groan under a burden of in-
physical, mental, and moral power."
firmities because of wrong habits of —"The Sanctified Life," pages 25, 26.
eating and drinking, which do violence
"The controlling power of appetite
to the laws of life and health. They are
will prove the ruin of thousands, when,
enfeebling their digestive organs by
if they had conquered on this point,
indulging perverted appetite. The they would have moral power to gain
power of the human constitution to victory over every other temptation of
resist the abuses put upon it is wonder-
Satan. But slaves to appetite will fail
ful, but persistent wrong habits in
in perfecting Christian character. The
excessive eating and drinking will en-
continual transgression of man for six
feeble every function of the body. In
thousand years has brought sick. ess,
the gratification of perverted appetite
pain, and death, as its fruits."—"Tem-
and passion even professed Christians
perance," page 16.
cripple nature in her work and lessen
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "Child Guidance," pages 394-400.
63
Health Values in. the Home
LESSON 8
Tuesday
November 16
Part 3
"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of
THE CASE FOR God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy,
ABSTINENCE acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye trans-
formed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove
what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of
Rom. 12:1, 2 God."
In making a distinction between temperance and absti-
nence, we need this appeal from Paul. While we are aware that
many people define temperance as abstinence from that which
is harmful and restraint in the use of that which is good, in
this part of the lesson we are studying actual abstinence, with
no thought of temperance at all. The chief appeal that gives
strength in this respect is this statement in Romans.
What experience of Daniel illustrates the strength of
character needed by the Christian in areas requiring
total abstinence? Dan. 1:8-21.
THINK IT THROUGH
Alcoholic drinks are a prime example of the misuse of God's
benefits.
"Our Creator has bestowed His bounties upon man with a
liberal hand. Were all these gifts of Providence wisely and
temperately employed, poverty, sickness, and distress would
be well-nigh banished from the earth. But alas, we see on every
hand the blessings of God changed to a curse by the wicked-
ness of men.
"There is no class guilty of greater perversion and abuse of
His precious gifts than are those who employ the products of
the soil in the manufacture of intoxicating liquors. The nutri-
tive grains, the healthful, delicious fruits, are converted into
beverages that pervert the senses and madden the brain. As a
result of the use of these poisons, thousands of families are
deprived of the comforts and even the necessaries of life, acts
of violence and crime are multiplied, and disease and death
hurry myriads of victims to a drunkard's
grave."—Temperance,
page 31.
Does desire for social acceptance sometimes blunt my
wholehearted sacrifice of my body to God?
"The unnatural exhilaration which
intemperance gives to the mind and
spirits, lowers the sensibilities to moral
improvement, making it impossible for
holy impulses to affect the heart, and
hold government over the passions,
F
.
OR FURTHER STUDY: "Child Guidance,"
64
when public opinion and fashion sus-
tain them. Festivities and amusements,
dances, and free use of wine, becloud
the senses, and remove the fear of
God."—"Temperance," page 50.
pages 401-410.
Health Values in the Home
LESSON 8
Part 4
IMPORTANCE
OF DIET
1 Cor. 3:17
THINK IT THROUGH
Wednesday
November 17
"If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God
destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple
ye are."
This seems to be a foundation text for the health-reform
message which is so vital a part of the Advent message. It
provides a framework for a discussion of healthful living that
makes it a spiritual matter.
God's claim on our bodies as His temple makes the use of
anything which is harmful a means of defiling the temple. This
gives us a reason, as children of God, for discarding the harm-
ful.
What rule did Paul give for deciding what is good
and acceptable? 1 Cor. 10:31.
What connection is made between eating and glorify-
ing God?
"To eat on the Sabbath the same amount of food eaten on
a working day is entirely out of place. The Sabbath is the day
set apart for the worship of God, and on it we are to be spe-
cially careful in regard to our diet. A clogged stomach means
a clogged brain. Too often so large an amount of food is eaten
on the Sabbath that the mind is rendered dull and stupid,
incapable of appreciating spiritual
things."—Counsels on
Health,
page 577.
Is it pride, or is it appetite, that forms the chief reason
for the failure of so many to come up to God's purpose
for us in healthful living?
"I am instructed to say that if meat
eating ever were safe, it is not safe
now. Diseased animals are taken to
the large cities, and to the villages, and
sold for food. Many of these poor crea-
tures would have died of disease in
a very short time, if they had not been
slaughtered; yet the carcasses of these
diseased animals are prepared for the
market, and people eat freely of this
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "Child Guidance,"
poisonous food."—"Medical Ministry,"
page 280.
"It was when the children of Israel
sat down to eat and drink, and rose
up to play, that they threw off the fear
of God, which they had felt as they
listened to the giving of the law; and,
making a golden calf to represent God,
they worshiped it."—"The Acts of the
Apostles," page 316.
pages 371-377.
65
Health Values in the Home
LESSON 8
Thursday
November
/8
"And He said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart
into a desert place, and rest awhile: for there were
many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much
as to eat."
Part 5
REST AND
RECREATION
Mark 6:31
D
There are some who misread God's purpose for man when
they conclude that the urgency of the work of the gospel, or
any other cause, is so great that there is no time for needed
rest and recreation.
Christ's example should be noted here. This was not simply
compassion on His part for the weary disciples. He knew only
too well that to burn oneself out in any work merely shortens
the useful period of a person's life.
How did Christ show His thoughtfulness for the dis-
ciples even on that fateful night in the garden? Matt.
26:45.
What problem is presented by some athletic activi-
ties?
"Some of the most popular amusements, such as football
and boxing, have become schools of brutality. They are devel-
oping the same characteristics as did the games of ancient
Rome. The love of domination, the pride in mere brute force,
the reckless disregard of life, are exerting upon the youth a
power to demoralize that is appalling."—The
Adventist Home,
page 500.
THINK IT THROUGH
In what ways can I be sure that my recreation and
that of my family tend to glorify God?
"How many of the youthful disci-
ples . . . have made God their trust
and portion, and have earnestly sought
to know and to do His will? There are
many who are servants of Christ in
name, but who are not so in deed.
Where religious principle governs, the
danger of committing great errors is
small; for selfishness, which always
blinds and deceives, is subordinate.
The sincere desire to do others good so
predominates that self is forgotten. To
have firm religious principles is an in-
estimable treasure. It is the purest,
highest, and most elevated influence
mortals can possess. Such have an an-
chor. Every act is well considered, lest
its effect be injurious to another and
lead away from Christ."—"Counsels on
Health," page 288.
FOR
FURTHER STUDY: "The Adventist Home," pages 506-520.
66
Health Values in the Home
LESSON 8
Friday
November 19
Part 6
"Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a
SACRIFICIAL live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the
LIVING tongs from off the altar: and he laid
-
it upon my mouth,
and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity
is taken away, and thy sin purged. Also I heard the
voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who
Isa. 6:6-8 will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me."
Not all of our going must be in the field of direct missionary
endeavor. The life lived sacrificially in the light of God's in-
struction is a powerful instrument to attract others to a search
for direction in their own lives.
The experience of Isaac in being offered as a sacrifice and
then miraculously being delivered must have been a great and
positive influence on his life. Gen. 22:1-13.
What should be our deterfoination regarding living
for God, in view of the instruction given us—this means
by which we are delivered from the altar of appetite
or passion?
Does the idea of sacrificial living and doing good
extend even to care of the body? Rom. 12:1, 2.
THINK IT THROUGH
What are some practices I should adopt in my life
that might be considered sacrificial living?
"Is it necessary that in order to solve
the problem of education one must
commit robbery toward God, and re-
fuse to give God the willing service of
the powers of the spirit, soul, and
body? God calls upon you to be doers
of His word, in order that you may be
thoroughly educated in the principles
that will give you a fitness for heaven.
. . . The purpose of education should
be to take in light in order that you
may impart light by letting it shine
forth to others in good works."—"Fun-
damentals of Christian Education,"
page 352.
"Oh, how can any who have the
light of truth, the great light given
them of God, defy the wrath and
judgments of God by sinning against
Him, and doing the very things God
has told them in His Word not to do?
How can they be so blinded by Satan
as to dishonor God to His face, and
defile their souls by sinning know-
ing ly?"—"Testimon ies to Ministers,"
page 447.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "The Ministry of Healing," pages 395-406.
67
Health Values in the Home
LESSON 8
Part 7
0
SUMMARY QUESTIONS
0
TO TEST YOUR STUDY POWER
1.
The first step in healthful living is to gain
2.
True or False: The question of diet is one which concerns only the in-
dividual. One does not need to consider others in this part of his life
3.
Paul suggests that rather than being molded by the world, our real need
is for
4.
In how many things are we to glorify God?
Name some.
5.
The real test of recreation should be that it
6.
The adoption of healthful practices of living may rightly be thought of
by many as
living.
(The answers are at the bottom of the page.)
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68
Part 1
DO CHRISTIANS
NEED RECREATION?
Prov. 17:22
Sunday
November 21
"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine."
Recreation Through Play and Hobby
LESSON 9
What outward testimony should true Christians pre-
sent to the world?
"Christians should be the most cheerful and happy people
that live. They may have the consciousness that God is their
Father and their everlasting Friend.
"But many professed Christians do not correctly represent
the Christian religion. They appear gloomy, as if under a
cloud. They often speak of the great sacrifices they have made
to become Christians. They appeal to those who have not
accepted Christ, representing by their own example and con-
versation that they must give up everything which would
make life pleasant and joyful. They throw a pall of darkness
over the blessed Christian hope. The impression is given that
God's requirements are a burden even to the willing soul, and
that everything that would give pleasure, or that would de-
light the taste, must be
sacrificed."—Messages to Young
People,
page 363.
"Recreation is needful to those who are engaged in physical
labor and is still more essential for those whose labor is prin-
cipally mental. It is not essential to our salvation, nor for the
glory of God, to keep the mind laboring constantly and ex-
cessively, even upon religious
themes."—Testimonies,
Vol. 1,
p. 514.
Might it be possible that the spirituality of my home
could be affected by my attitude toward recreation?
THINK IT THROUGH
Actually, is there any phase or stage of life that is
not affected by the way we look upon recreation?
"It is the privilege and duty of Chris-
tians to seek to refresh their spirits and
invigorate their bodies by innocent
recreation, with the purpose of using
their physical and mental powers to the
glory of God. Our recreations should
not be scenes of senseless mirth, tak-
ing the form of the nonsensical. We can
conduct them in such a manner as will
benefit and elevate those with whom
we associate, and better qualify us
and them to more successfully attend
to the duties devolving upon us as
Christians.
"We cannot be excusable in the sight
of God if we engage in amusements
which have a
tendency
to unfit us for
the faithful performance of the ordi-
nary duties of life, and thus lessen our
relish for the contemplation of God
and heavenly things."—"Messages to
Young People," page 364.
FOR
FURTHER STUDY: "The Adventist Home," page 507.
70
Recreation Through Play and Hobby
LESSON 9
Part 2
CRITE3IA FOR
RECREATION
1 Cor. 10:31;
Phil. 4:5
Monday
November 22
"Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever
ye do, do all to the glory of God."
"Let your moderation be known unto all men."
"There are persons with a diseased imagination to whom
religion is a tyrant, ruling them as with a rod of iron. . . .
They consider all recreation or amusement a sin. . . . This is
one extreme. Others think that the mind must ever be on the
stretch to invent new amusements and diversions. . . . They
learn to depend on excitement, and are uneasy without it."
—Counsels on Health,
page 631.
THINK IT THROUGH
What is the true purpose of education?
"In this age, life has become artificial, and men have de-
generated. While we may not return fully to the simple habits
of those early times, we may learn from them lessons that will
make our seasons of recreation what the name implies—seasons
of true upbuilding for body and mind and
soul."—Education,
page 211.
What does the term "re-create" imply? Is there a
need for agreement in the home on the kinds of play
and diversion that could be helpful to every member of
the family?
In what ways can recreation enter into meals, wor-
ship, trips, and work programs of the family as well as
the stated times of diversion? Can everyday family living
be an adventure in recreation?
"Are your recreations such as to
impart moral and spiritual vigor? Will
they lead to purrijio
-
f
th
-
abblif and
action? Impurity is today widespread,
even among the professed followers
of Christ. Passion is unrestrained; the
animal propensities are gaining
strength by indulgence, while the moral
powers are constantly becoming
weaker. Many are eagerly participat-
ing in worldly, demoralizing amuse-
ments which God's Word forbids. Thus
they sever their connection with God
FOR FURTHER STUDY:
"The Adventist Home," pages 506, 507.
71
and rank themselves with the pleasure
lovers of the world. The sins that de-
stroyed the antediluvians and the cities
of the plain exist today—not merely in
heathen lands, not only among popular
professors of Christianity, but with
some who profess to be looking for the
coming of the Son of man. If God
should present these sins before you as
they appear in His sight, you would be
filled with shame and terror."—"Tes-
timonies," Vol. 5, p. 218.
Part 3
ARE AMUSEMENTS
AND SPORTS A
PART OF
RECREATION?
Prov. 4:14, 15
Tuesday
November 23
"Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in
the way of evil men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from
it, and pass away."
What is the difference between recreation and amuse-
ment?
"There is a distinction between recreation and amusement.
Recreation, when_ true to its name, re-creation, tends to
strengthen and build up. . . . Amusement, on the other hand,
is sought for the sake of pleasure and is often carried to ex-
cess."—Education,
page 207.
"In order for children and youth to have health, cheerful-
ness, vivacity, and well-developed muscles and brains, they
should be much in the open air and have well-regulated em-
ployment and
amusement."—Testimonies,
Vol. 3, p. 137.
"Let the parents study to get up something to take the
place of more dangerous amusements." —/bid., Vol. 1, p. 514.
"There is great need of temperance in amusements, as in
every other
pursuit."—Counsels to Teachers,
page 333.
"Sports and games open the door to a flood of temptations."
—Ibid.,
p. 366.
"They [excessive athletic games] tend to destroy a relish
for life's sober realities and its tranquil enjoyments. Thus the
door is opened to dissipation and lawlessness, with their ter-
rible
results."—Education,
page 211.
Is the danger in amusement and sports themselves or
in the problem of imbalance? Is there as much danger
in sedentary "sports" of adults, such as gossip or criti-
cism, as in excess in team sports of youth?
THINK IT THROUGH
Recreation Through Play and Hobby
LESSON 9
"While we are seeking to refresh our
spirits and invigorate our bodies, we
are required of God to use all our
powers at all times to the best pur-
pose. We can, and should, conduct our
recreations in such a manner that we
shall be better fitted for the more suc-
cessful discharge of the duties devolv-
ing upon us, and our influence will be
more beneficial upon those with whom
we associate. . . .
"Any amusement in which you can
engage asking the blessing of God
upon it in faith will not be dangerous.
But any amusement which disqualifies
you for secret prayer, for devotion at
the altar of prayer, or for taking part
in the prayer meeting, is not safe, but
dangerous."—"Counsels to Teachers,"
pages 336, 337.
FOR FURTHER STUDY:
"The Adventist Home," page 511.
72
Recreation Through Play and Hobby
LESSON 9
Wednesday
November 24
Part 4
"In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall
CHOOSING FUN direct thy paths."
FOR THE FAMILY
Prey. 3:6
from care, labor, and perplexity. Parents should become chil-
"On such occasions parents and children should feel free
dren with their children, making everything as pleasant for
them as possible. . . . Nothing will be lost, but much gained."
—Testimonies,
Vol. 1, p. 515.
Is Mrs. White's counsel on this subject out of date? Is there
a danger of limiting the concept of fun? Shouldn't it include
all phases of living?
Are the recreational pursuits to be solely what the parents
like to do—or should they take into account the ages and
interests of the children?
In what way can the child's attitude toward work
help in his outlook on life? in his choice of a vocation?
and in his enjoyment of life?
THINK IT THROUGH
Some youth have a tendency to feel that the Seventh-
day Adventist teaching with respect to fun is too re-
stricted. What are avenues of wholesome discussion and
activity that are worthy of our time and effort? What is
the duty of parents and teachers to the youth who have
difficulty understanding the danger of questionable
amusements?
"Youth
cannot be made as sedate
and grave as old age, the child as
sober as the sire. While sinful amuse-
ments are condemned, as they should
be, let parents, teachers, and guardians
of youth provide in their stead innocent
pleasures, which will not taint or cor-
rupt the morals."—"Counsels to Teach-
ers," page 335.
"There are modes of recreation
which are highly beneficial to both
mind and body. An enlightened, dis-
criminating mind will find abundant
means for entertainment and diver-
sion, from sources not only innocent,
but instructive. Recreation in the open
air, the contemplation of the works of
God in nature, will be of the highest
benefit.
"The great God, whose glory shines
from the heavens, and whose divine
hand upholds millions of worlds, is our
Father. We have only to love Him, trust
in Him, as little children in faith and
confidence, and He will accept us as
His sons and daughters, and we shall
be heirs to all the inexpressible glory
of the eternal world. All the meek will
He guide in judgment, the meek will
He teach His way. If we will walk in
obedience to His will, learn cheerfully
and diligently the lessons of His prov-
idence, by and by He will say: Child,
come home to the heavenly mansions
I have prepared for you."—"Testimo-
nies," Vol. 4, p. 653.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "The Adventist Home," page 508; "Testimonies," Vol. 1,
pp. 514, 515.
73
Part 5
CHOOSING HOBBIES
Prov. 31:27
Thursday
November 25
"She looketh well to the ways of her household, and
eateth not the bread of idleness."
"Parents cannot commit a greater sin than to allow their
children to have nothing to
do."—Christ's Object Lessons,
page 345.
"It is a sin to let them [children] grow up in idleness."
—Testimonies,
Vol. 2, p. 371.
What counsel does the Bible give about idleness?
Prov. 6:6-11.
Recreation Through
Play and Hobby
LESSON 9
THINK IT THROUGH
Although there is no substitute for the responsibility of
work, the developing of hobbies is a most important supple-
ment to gainful occupation of time. Is there a better way to
nurture a never-ending fellowship adv_enture_with your chil-
dren and with each other?
What might be some hobbies that would unite the follow-
ing categories:
a.
Indoor
b.
Outdoor
c.
Active
d.
Quiet
e.
Secular
f.
Religious
Must Christianity be mostly theoretical or mostly prac-
tical if we are to win the youth for Christ? If religion is
largely caught instead of taught, am I utilizing the natu-
ral youth hobby interest in the mission field which is my
family? Does the following quotation have application
in the field of hobbies?
"In the place of providing diversions
that merely amuse, arrangements
should be made for exercises that will
be productive of good. . . .
"God bestows talents upon men, not
that these talents may lie unused or
be
employed in self-gratification, but that
they may be used to bless others. God
grants men the gift of time for the
purpose of promoting His glory. When
FOR FURTHER STUDY:
"The Adventist Home," pages 509, 510.
74
this time is used in selfish pleasure, the
hours thus spent are lost for all eter-
nity.
"Our young people need to be sur-
rounded with wholesome, uplifting in-
fluences. They are to be kept in the
love of the truth. The standard set
before them should be high."—"Coun-
sels to Teachers," page 354:
Recreation Through Play and Hobby
LESSON 9
Part 7 <> SUMMARY QUESTIONS <> TO TEST YOUR STUDY POWER
1.
Do Christians need recreation)
2.
True or False: Seasons of recreation are for the upbuilding of body, mind,
and soul
3.
Any amusement in which you can engage asking the
upon it . . . will not be dangerous.
4.
What is the duty of parents and teachers with regard to recreation for our
youth?
5.
List three hobbies that are active •
List three hobbies that are quiet •
6.
Sabbath is to be the
of the week.
(The answers are at the bottom of the page.)
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76
Economics in the Home
LESSON 10
Tuesday
November 30
Part 3
"To everything there is a season, and a time to every
HAVE A SCHEDULE purpose under the heaven."
Eccl. 3:1
One of the relentless things about life is that it is passing.
Time spends itself no matter what we do with it. It moves at
its own pace, and we can't "save" any part of it. The only
part we play in its passing is the purpose to which we put
it. We can waste it or use it well; we can fill it full or leave
it empty and idle. We can use it for the right things or for
the wrong things.
What does the wise man say about time? Eccl. 8:5,
last part.
Every successful business has a definite program, a schedule.
Every successful home must have the same. Inasmuch as some
responsibilities require more time than others and all of us are
tempted to spend more time with certain duties than with
others, a budget should be made before the schedule is started.
What should the slow, careless worker do?
THINK IT THROUGH
"There is no excuse for slow bungling at work of any char-
acter. . . . The one who is slow and who works at a disad-
vantage should realize that these are faults to be corrected.
He needs to exercise his mind in planning how to use the time
so as to secure the best results."--Christ's
Object Lessons,
page 344.
How much time do I waste in doing things that don't
mean much to me or to anyone else? Am I putting off
doing the important things of life while waiting for "a
more convenient season"?
"It is the duty of every Christian to
acquire habits of order, thoroughness,
and dispatch.... When one is always
at work and the work is never done, it
is because mind and heart are not put
into the labor.... By tact and method,
some will accomplish as much in five
hours as others do in ten. Some who
are engaged in domestic labor are al-
ways at work not because they have
so much to do but because they do not
FOR FURTHER STUDY:
"Child Guidance,"
pages 190-194.
80
plan so as to save time. By their slow,
dilatory ways they make much work
out of very little. But all who will, may
overcome these fussy, lingering habits.
In their work let them have a definite
aim. Decide how long a time is re-
quired for a given task, and then bend
every effort toward accomplishing the
work in the given time."—"Christ's Ob-
ject Lessons," page 344.
pages
110-112;
"The Adventist Home,"
Economics in the Home
LESSON 10
Thursday
December 2
Part 5
"Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are
SPENDING MONEY Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's."
Matt. 22:21
Parents should teach the child how to spend his money.
This calls for a budget. A budget neither takes from nor adds
to the amount, but it does enable one to spend economically.
One way of teaching a child how to budget his money is to
divide his earnings into four parts.
PART ONE is for God—tithes and offerings. The child
should be taught that God comes first in his money and in his
affections. After tithe come offerings such as Sabbath School
offerings and other church funds.
PART TWO is used to supply personal needs. We might
begin with one inexpensive article of clothing. By the time he
is in his teens, he should be able to buy all his own clothes
with the money allowed. What is the difference between a debt
and an investment?
PART THREE is for a savings account. No business is
secure without some capital, and no home is secure without a
savings account. This is just the opposite of the charge ac-
count, which often costs a couple more than they realize in
interest, besides tempting them to overspend.
What instruction is given in the Bible concerning debt?
Rom. 13:8.
"We should shun debt as we should shun the leprosy."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 6, p. 217. Debt is a handicap. It causes fric-
tion between husband and wife. It is worth the effort to pay
off the debts and start a savings account.
PART FOUR is the personal allowance. If every dime is
tagged, the child is likely to get the idea that money is simply
to be passed on to someone else. But if he sees that twenty-five
cents out of every dollar is his to spend as he pleases, he begins
to realize that money has value. He may make some poor
investments, but better lose a few quarters now than many
dollars later. A child learns to spend money by using it.
Each adult should have a personal allowance. After our
obligations to God and to man are cared for and something
laid away for emergencies, the remainder should be divided
between husband and wife.
THINK IT THROUGH
How does money spending reveal character?
"Money has great value, because it
can do great good. In the hands of
God's children it is food for the hungry,
drink for the thirsty, and clothing for
the naked. It is a defense for the op-
pressed, and a means of help to the
sick. But money is of no more value
than sand, only as it is put to use in
providing for the necessities of life, in
blessing others, and advancing the
cause of Christ."—"Christ's Object Les-
sons," page 351.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "The Adventist Home," pages 367-398.
82
Economics in the Home
LESSON 10
Friday
December 3
Part 6
"And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took
PRACTICE up of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full."
Matt. 14:20
ECONOMY
sand."—Child Guidance,
page 135.
"There is a lesson for us in the feeding of the five thou-
"Nothing that can be utilized should be thrown away. This
will require wisdom, and forethought, and constant care."
—Ibid.
Good wholesome food should not be thrown away;
neither should we overeat of it. An impoverished diet is poor
economy regardless of the price paid.
Why should children learn to economize?
"Teach your children that God has a claim upon all they
possess, and that nothing can ever cancel this claim; all they
have is theirs only in trust, to prove whether they will be
obedient. . . . Habits of economy, industry, and sobriety are,
even in this world, a better portion for you and your children
than a rich dowry."—Ibid., p. 134. One way of teaching econ-
omy in time is to have everything returned to its place when
not in use. Hours are wasted in looking for lost articles. Equally
necessary is it to have a time (a schedule) for regular family
routine.
What kind of toys should be given to children?
"Do not give the children playthings that are easily broken.
To do this is to teach lessons in destructiveness. Let them have
a few playthings, and let these be strong and durable. Such
suggestions, small though they may seem, mean much in the
education of the
child."—Counsels to Teachers,
page 123.
When he grows older a child should learn to repair his toys.
Small repairs mean large savings. "The inability to save, in
little things, is one reason why so many families suffer for lack
of the necessities of
life."—Ibid.,
p. 135.
THINK IT THROUGH
How do some people use the time that others waste?
"A few moments here and a few
there, that might be frittered away in
aimless talk; the morning hours so
often wasted in bed; . . . the moments
of waiting . .. —if a book were kept at
hand, and these fragments of time were
improved in study, reading, or careful
thought, what might not be accom-
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "Child GuidanCe,"
Home," pages 381-385.
plished. A resolute purpose, persistent
industry, and careful economy of time,
will enable men to acquire knowledge
and mental discipline which will qual-
ify them for almost any position of in-
fluence and usefulness."—"Christ's Ob-
ject lessons," page 343.
pages 101, 102, 134-136; "The Adventist
83
LESSON 11
December 11
LOVE, THE HOME'S FOUNDATION 111
"Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and everyone that loveth
is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God
is love." 1 John 4:7, 8.
It no doubt seems trite to suggest that
love is the foundation of the home. What
is true of any home in this respect is
doubly true of the Christian home. This is
an area, however, where we sometimes get
involved in a swampland of words which
we use glibly, often failing really to think
through just what we mean by the words.
The fact that in Western countries, and
especially in America, the home is many
times established as the result of romantic
love, sometimes causes us to wonder why
the excitement and wonder fade with the
passing months. Romantic love involves a
great deal of sentimentality, a "tickle under
the fifth rib" type of thing; but, essential
and wonderful as that is, it takes a deeper
and more meaningful love to build a home.
It takes a love that will face trials and
disappointments, that will endure the strug-
gles of raising a family.
Our study this week will explore this
kind of love.
LESSON OUTLINE
1.
Love, the Christian's Mark
John 13:35
2.
Love Is Concern
Jer. 31:3
3.
Love Is Responsibility
Num. 10:31
4.
Love Is Empathy
Eze. 3:15
5.
Love Is Knowing
John 10:27
6.
An Analysis of Love
1 Cor. 13:4-7
85
Love, the Home's Foundation
LESSON 11
Part 2
LOVE IS CONCERN
Jer. 31:3
THINK IT THROUGH
Monday
December 6
"The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea,
I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore
with loving-kindness have I drawn thee."
This text sets in bold relief the first ingredient of true love
—CONCERN. It was concern for man's welfare that led God
to make the supreme gift to mankind. While the acceptance
of this gift must be the free choice of man, God works with
man constantly. Jer. 3:13, 14.
If we are to be as God wants us to be, this same constant
concern must mark our dealings with each other as parents
and our dealings with our children.
"Neither parents nor children can have peace or happiness
or rest of spirit in any false path. But when the fear of God
reigns in the heart, combined with love for Jesus, peace and
and joy will be
felt."—Child Guidance,
page 67.
Much of Christ's instruction was to show man how to be
happy (blessed).
Review the Beatitudes, reading "happy" instead of
"blessed." Matt. 5:3-12.
True love seeks genuine happiness for the children.
Child
Guidance,
page 135, states that true love for children will be
expressed by not "indulging their pride, their extravagance,
their love of display."
Keep this facet of love in mind when we study the ques-
tion of discipline in the home, because it is concerned with the
growth of the person as an individual.
How can I be sure my dealings with the children and
with my life partner stem from love and concern for
their welfare rather than from my pride and self-
concern?
'Love has a twin sister, which is
duty. Love and duty stand side by side.
Love exercised while duty is neglected
will make children headstrong, willful,
perverse, selfish, and disobedient. If
stern duty is left to stand alone with-
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "The Adventist Home," pages 50-54.
87
out love to soften and win, it will have
a similar result. Duty and love must be
blended in order that children may be
properly disciplined."—"Testimonies,"
Vol. 3, p. 195.
Love, the Home's Foundation
LESSON 11
Part 3
LOVE IS
RESPONSIBILITY
Num. 10:31
THINK IT THROUGH
Tuesday
December 7
"And he said, Leave us not, I pray thee; forasmuch
as thou knowest how we are to encamp in the wilder-
ness, and thou mayest be to us instead of eyes."
The experience of Moses with Hobab is a clear illustration
of the second ingredient to be found where there is genuine
love—RESPONSIBILITY. This is another word that can be
slipped over carelessly. It is actually the ability to respond to
and satisfy a need. It is a primary evidence of God's love to
us, that He is able to respond to and satisfy all of our needs.
Happy the home which is peopled with those who are will-
ing to help and encourage each other.
How did Joseph satisfy the material needs of his
father and his brethren? Gen. 45:16-28.
Even as Joseph showed real love in caring for the brothers
who had so terribly wronged him, parents need to accept and
strengthen children who have failed.
"Do not withdraw your love now. That love and sympathy
is needed now as never before. When others look with coldness
and put the worst construction upon the misdeeds of your
boy, should not the father and mother in pitying tenderness
seek to guide his footsteps into
safe paths?"—Child Guidance,
page 266.
Why is it so important for children to receive love
from parents and others?
"Do not treat your children only with sternness, forgetting
. that they are but children. Do not expect them to be
perfect. . . . By so doing, you will close the door of access
which you might otherwise have to them and will drive them
to open a door for injurious influences, for others to poison
their young minds."—The
Adventist Home,
page 196.
How can I best recognize and satisfy the needs of my
mate and my children?
"Fathers and mothers, in the home traits of character developed in their
you are to represent God's disposition.
children, and have not had the tender-
You are to require obedience, not with ness and wisdom to deal with these
a storm of words, but in a kind, loving poor children, whom they have made
manner. You are to be so full of com-
what they are. . . . But Jesus looks
passion that your children will be
upon these children with pity and with
drawn to you."—"Child Guidance," love, for He sees, He understands from
page 259.
cause to effect."—"Fundamentals of
"Even parents have not understood Christian Education," page 262.
how much they are responsible for the
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "Education," pages 113, 114.
88
Part 4
LOVE IS EMPATHY
Eze. 3:15
THINK IT THROUGH
L Wednesday
December 8
"Then I came to them of the captivity of Tel-abib, that
dwelt by the river of Chebar, and I sat where they sat,
and remained there astonished among them seven days."
Read the first three chapters of Ezekiel to get the setting
for this verse, which points out the third ingredient of love—
EMPATHY. This word may be unfamiliar to some. The mean-
ing here is the ability to put oneself into another's place, and
thus better understand why he acts or speaks as he does.
What is the secret of Christ's success as our Mediator?
Heb. 2:17, 18.
In no situation is empathy more important than in the
home. It might help to bridge the "generation gap" if children
could see the viewpoint of the parents; but let us be realistic
and say that parents should also concentrate on developing
the ability to see their children's viewpoint.
"Let father and mother remember that they themselves are
but grown-up children. .
. Because of their own mistakes
and errors they should learn to deal gently with their erring
children.
"You may feel annoyed sometimes because your children
go contrary to what you have told them. But have you ever
thought that many times you go contrary to what the Lord
has commanded you to
do?"—Child Guidance,
pages 264, 265.
What are some of the ways husbands and wives can
show empathy for each other? Should parents feel con-
cern for their children?
Love, the Home's Foundation
LESSON 11
"Children need constant watchcare
"Administer the rules of the home
and tender love. Bind them to your in wisdom and love, not with a rod of
hearts, and keep the love as well as
iron. Children will respond with will-
the fear of God before them. Fathers
ing obedience to the rule of love. Com-
and mothers do not control their own
mend your children whenever you can.
spirit and therefore are not fit to gov-
. . . Remember that children need not
ern others. . . . You have yet to learn
only reproof and correction, but also
to do justly and love mercy, as well as encouragement and commendation, the
to walk humbly with God."—"Testi- pleasant sunshine of kind words."—
monies," Vol. 4, p. 621.
"Counsels to Teachers," page 114.
FOR
FURTHER STUDY: "Testimonies," Vol. 3, pp. 133-136.
89
Love, the Home's Foundation
LESSON 11
Part 5
LOVE IS KNOWING
Psalm 103:13,14
THINK IT THROUGH
Thursday
December
9
"Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord
pitieth them that fear Him. For He knoweth our frame;
He remembereth that we are dust."
Read also Psalm 139:1-18.
Few relationships known to man more meaningfully picture
God's love for His people than a father's love for his children.
One reason given for this love is that God knows us.
Knowledge of man's frailty and weakness seems to make an
added appeal, if any were needed, to the heart of God in man's
behalf—an appeal human parents well understand when they
are entrusted with the life of a helpless infant.
Note the characteristics of a father's love in the story of
the prodigal son. Luke 15:11-32.
This fourth ingredient of love is superlatively illustrated in
this story. Read comments in
Testimonies,
Vol. 3, pp. 102, 103,
and in
Christ's Object Lessons,
pages- 198-211.
As parents we need to know our children well enough to
recognize their shortcomings but nevertheless to give them
affection and understanding.
Self-knowledge on the part of parents is also essential, that
positive traits of character may be developed and weaknesses
overcome. This experience came to Enoch after the birth of
his first son: "The closer the connection with God, the deeper
was the sense of his own weakness and imperfection."—Pa-
triarchs
and Prophets,
page 85. See also page 84.
"Day by day you may make advancement in self-knowl-
edge. Day by day you may learn better how to strengthen
your weak points of character. The Lord Jesus will be your
light, your strength, . . . because you yield the will to His
will."—The Adventist Home,
pages 95, 96.
How may I be sure that my love for my family is
based on a knowledge of myself and of the family
members?
"I see the necessity of parents deal-
ing in the wisdom of Christ with their
erring children. . . . It is the unpromis-
ing ones who need the greatest pa-
tience and kindness, the most tender
sympathy. . . . Let the hearts of parents
be softened by the grace of Christ, and
His love will find a way to the heart."
—"Child Guidance," page 260.
"The mother's work is such .that it
demands continual advancement in her
own life, in order that she may lead
her children to higher and still higher
attainments. But Satan lays his plans
to secure the souls of both parents and
children. Mothers are drawn away
from the duties of home and the care-
ful training of their little ones, to the
service of self and the world."—"Ibid.,"
p. 7L
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "SDA Bible Commentary," Vol. 6, pp. 780-783.
90
Love, the Home's Foundation
LESSON 11
Friday
December 10
Part 6
"Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth
AN ANALYSIS not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not
OF LOVE behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not
easily provoked, thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity,
but rejoiceth in the truth; beareth all things, believeth
1 Cor. 13:4-7
all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things."
The description in these verses does not define love, but
it does describe the person who loves. The concept of love we
have been studying this week, when made a part of the life,
makes possible this description of the person who truly loves.
THINK IT THROUGH
What part does love play in determining personal
behavior?
"Up through the roots of his affection for Christ springs an
unselfish interest in his brethren. Love imparts to its possessor
grace, propriety, and comeliness of deportment. It illuminates
the countenance and subdues the voice; it refines and elevates
the entire
being."—Gospel Workers,
page 123.
"Love is power. Intellectual and moral strength are involved
in this principle, and cannot be separated from it. . . . The
excellence and value of pure love consist in its efficiency to do
good, and to do nothing else than good. Whatsoever is done
out of pure love, be it ever so little or contemptible in the
sight of men, is wholly fruitful; for God regards more with
how much love one worketh than the amount he doeth."—
Testimonies, Vol. 2,
p. 135.
How does Christ's description of the Good Shepherd
paint a picture of love? John 10:1-10.
In what ways has my life revealed true love to my
family during the past week? How should a person look
at 1 Corinthians 13—as a code to follow, or as a basis
for forming a right character?
"The door of the mind should be
closed against 'they say' or 'I have
heard.' Why should we not, instead of
allowing jealousy or evil surmising to
come into our hearts, go to our breth-
ren, and, after frankly but kindly set-
ting before them the things we have
heard detrimental to their character
and influence, pray with and for
them?"—Ellen G. White Comments,
"SDA Bible Commentary," Vol. 3, p.
1163.
"The Bible enjoins courtesy, and it
presents many illustrations of the un-
selfish spirit, the gentle grace, the win-
some temper, that characterize true
politeness. These are but reflections of
the character of Christ. All the real ten-
derness and courtesy in the world,
even among those who do not acknowl-
edge His name, is from Him. And He
desires these characteristics to be per-
fectly reflected in His children."—"Edu-
cation," pages
241, 242.
91
Love, the Home's Foundation
LESSON 11
Part 7 <> SUMMARY QUESTIONS <> TO TEST YOUR STUDY POWER
1.
Love is the
of discipleship.
2.
What is the first ingredient of true love?
3.
Responsibility is the ability to
to and
another's
needs.
4.
A word to describe putting oneself in another's place is
5.
"I see the necessity of parents dealing in the
of Christ with
their
children "
6.
"Love imparts to its possessor
and
of deportment."
(The answers are at the bottom of the page.)
ssautIawoo 'Appdosd ‘asesS (9)
:21up1a
‘tuopspe (g) :Atpedura (t) :Ajspes 'puodsai (g) !11.1031103 (g) !Ise; so spew (i) :wasssuty
92
LESSON 12
December 18
GIVING, THE GREATEST JOY
12
"1 have showed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to support the
weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said, It is more
blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20:35.
These were no idle words spoken by
Jesus, and they were not the afterthought
to some point of great importance. They
express one of the great principles of life.
A failure to learn this principle can deprive
a person of the primary source of happi-
ness. Because Christ came to earth to teach
men to be happy, He spoke often of love.
But to define love is to suggest that love
is primarily giving, not receiving.
"Love means having all the powers of
one's being disciplined, and devoted in all
their keenness and strength and maturity,
to the one loved; and that, too, through
all the long years until the web of life is
fully woven. This is God's secret of life.
And this is the one secret of the true
home. Such love shows itself, not only in
the gripping, driving purpose, but in a
thousand little ways. It will be felt in all
the planning, in money affairs, in the
punctual fitting into the home schedule, in
thoughtfulness about little things, in word,
and act, and look, and very presence."—
Gordon,
Quiet Talks on Home Ideals,
pages
107, 108.
This week we shall study the act of giv-
ing, to discover Christ's meaning and above
all to learn how we may exemplify His
teaching in our lives and pass along these
precepts to our children.
LESSON OUTLINE
1.
The Father—Giver Supreme
John 3:16
2.
Giving as an Expression of
Love's Power
Acts 3:6
3.
Self, the Greatest Gift
Matt. 16:24, 25
4.
Give Me Thine Heart
Prov. 23:26
5.
Give of Your Talents
Prov. 2:3-5
6.
Give of Your Means
2 Cor. 9:6, 7
93
Part 1
THE FATHER—
GIVER SUPREME
John 3:16
THINK IT THROUGH
Sunday
December 12
"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only-
begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should
not perish, but have everlasting life."
Christ came to this world to save man, but in order to do
this He had to portray the Father as He was in truth. God
was popularly pictured as a stern, unrelenting Judge, waiting
only for an opportunity to destroy. But Christ showed the
Father as loving His creatures so supremely that He emptied
all of heaven for their salvation. The sense of giving as the
great expression of love could not be more clearly shown. Be-
cause love is the very atmosphere of heaven, and love is giving,
Christ was anxious to teach men that only by giving can they
truly demonstrate love.
How did Christ, the Son, cooperate with the Father
in this great gift? Phil. 2:5-8.
In what ways might I teach my children, in a prac-
tical sense, the truth of God's Gift as the great expression
of His love?
Giving, the Greatest Joy
LESSON 12
.
"Like the wise men of old, you may
offer to God your best gifts and show
by your offerings to Him that you ap-
preciate His Gift to a sinful world. Set
your children's thoughts running in a
new, unselfish channel by inciting them
to present offerings to God for the gift
of His only-begotten Son."—"The Ad-
ventist Home," page 481.
"By His life and His death, Christ has
achieved even more than recovery from
the- ruin wrought through, sin. It was
Satan's purpose to bring about an eter-
nal separation between God and man;
but in Christ we
-
become more closely
united to God than if we had never
fallen. In taking our nature, the Saviour
has bound Himself to humanity by a tie
that is never to be broken. Through the
eternal ages He is linked with us. . . .
He gave Him not only to bear our sins,
and to die- as our sacrifice; He gave
Him to the fallen race."—"The Desire
of Ages/' page -25.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "The Desire of Ages," pages 19-26.
94
Part 2
GIVING AS AN
EXPRESSION OF
LOVE'S POWER
Acts 3:6
Monday
December 13
"Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but
such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ
of Nazareth rise up and walk."
Our thoughts on giving are quite naturally connected with
the question of stewardship, and stewardship is too often re-
lated quite largely to money.
The giving we shall discuss this week includes the money
we give for the support of all worthy causes in God's work,
but it is not limited to that. The experience of Peter in healing
the lame man is a fine illustration.
The great joy in giving comes from the ability to do or to
serve, to inspire or to sympathize.
Giving, the Greatest Joy
LESSON 12
Mention some examples of Jesus' gifts of teaching,
healing, and blessing. Luke 8; John 8.
What is said about the greatest joy for angels? "The angels
of glory find their joy in giving."—The
Desire of Ages,
page 21.
What characteristics are suggested as the elements of the
power of love? "Christian courtesy . . . has power to soften
natures which would grow hard and rough without it. The
cultivation of a uniform courtesy, a willingness to do by others
as we would like them to do by us, would banish half the
ills of
life."—The Adventist Home,
page 421.
THINK IT THROUGH
What evidences of the power of love do my children
and others see in my life?
"The golden rule is the principle of
"Above all things, parents should
true courtesy, and its truest illustration
surround their children with an atmos-
is seen in the life and character of phere of cheerfulness, courtesy, and
Jesus. Oh, what rays of softness and
love. A home where love dwells and
beauty shone forth in the daily life of
where it finds expression in looks, in
our Saviour! What sweetness flowed
words, in acts, is a place where angels
from His very presence! The same spirit
delight to dwell. Parents, let the sun-
will be revealed in His children. Those
shine of love, cheer, and happy content
with whom Christ dwells will be sur-
enter your own hearts, and let its sweet
rounded with a divine atmosphere.
influence pervade the home. Manifest
Their white robes of purity will be fra-
a kindly, forbearing spirit, and encour-
grant with perfume from the garden
age the same in your children, cultivat-
of the Lord. Their faces will reflect
ing all those graces that will brighten
light from His, brightening the path for
the home life."—"Counsels to Teach-
stumbling and weary feet."—"Thoughts ers," page 115.
From the Mount of Blessing," page 135.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "The Adventist Home ," pages 421-429.
95
THINK IT THROUGH
0
Tuesday
December 14
"Then said Jesus unto His disciples, If any man will
come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his
cross, and follow Me. For whosoever will save his life
shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for My sake
shall find it."
The greatest gift we can give to Christ, or to others, is
the gift of self. The person who enters into marriage with
reservations, not giving himself wholly to his companion, is
doomed to disappointment. The person who does not give of
himself freely to his children is depriving them of a real need
and cheating himself of true joy.
What type of consecration did Paul recommend?
1 Thess. 5:23.
Note the comment in
Counsels to Teachers,
page 249, about
the meaning of giving ourselves and the taking of Christ's
cross:
"It is the will of God that each professing Christian shall
perfect a character after the divine similitude. By studying the
character of Christ revealed in the Bible, by practicing His
virtues, the believer will be changed into the same likeness of
goodness and mercy. Christ'iigroa
• of
self-
-
cliiiiaraftd
s
-
aFrifice
brought into the daily life will develop the faith that works
by love and purifies the soul."
What message is sent to young people on this sub-
ject?
"His death ought to stir every fiber of the being, making us
willing to consecrate to His work all that we have and are. As
we think of what He has done for us, our hearts should be
filled with
love."—Messages to Young People,
page 315.
How can I find the line between giving myself so
completely to my children that they never learn the joys
of giving, and teaching them the meaning of giving of
one's self?
Part 3
SELF, THE
GREATEST GIFT
Maft. 16:24, 25
Giving, the Greatest Joy
LESSON 12
"A
great work is to be accomplished together in obedience to the truth.
by the setting forth of the saving truths Those who would experience more of
of the Bible. This is the means ordained
the sanctification of the truth in their
of God to stem the tide of moral cor-
own souls, should present this truth to
ruption in the earth. Christ gave His
those who are ignorant of it. Never
life to make it possible for man to be will they find a more elevating, en-
restored to the image of God. It is the nobling work."—"Counsels to Teach-
power of His grace that draws men ers," page 249.
FOR
FURTHER STUDY:
"Education," pages 102-112.
96
Giving, the Greatest Joy
LESSON 12
Wednesday
December 15
Part 4
"My son, give Me thine heart, and let thine eyes
GIVE ME observe My ways."
THINE HEART
Prey. 23:26
the heart. In more modern language, we would say that He
The greatest gift Christ asks of His followers is the gift of
demands the gift of the will. We must surrender the will to
Him. And yet, in the surrender, He in effect returns it to us,
but now with the assurance that He will strengthen us to use
that will in His service.
What is the result of looking to the Lord for strength?
Isa. 27:5.
Of what importance is the will? John 7:17.
THINK IT THROUGH
In the work of the parents in training the children, the will
of the parents must be brought into "submission to the will
of
God."—The Adventist Home,
page 213. Youth are espe-
cially urged to turn to God in early life (Eccl. 12:1) that
"they may grow up into noble manhood and womanhood,
notwithstanding the moral pollution that abounds, that cor-
rupts so many of the youth at an early
age."—Messages to
Young People,
page 369.
The hope of the parent to see the full surrender of the
child's will to Christ, is almost invariably measured by
the depth of the parent's surrender, as seen in the life.
How does a parent teach the idea of personal surrender
to his children?
"The 'Lord says to the young, 'My
son, give Me thine heart.' The Saviour
of the world loves to have children and
youth give their hearts to Him. There
may be a large army of children who
shall be found faithful to God, because
they walk in the light as Christ is in
the light. They will love the Lord Jesus,
and it will be their delight to please
Him. They will not be impatient if re-
proved; but will make glad the heart
of father and mother by their kindness,
their patience, their willingness to do
all they can in helping to bear the bur-
dens of daily life. Through childhood
and youth, they will be found faithful
disciples of our Lord."—"Messages to
Young People," page 333.
"God's invitation comes to each
youth, 'My son, give Me thine heart; I
will keep it pure; I will satisfy its long-
ings with true happiness.' God loves
to make the youth happy, and that is
why He would have them give their
hearts into His keeping, that all the
God-given faculties of the being may
be kept in a vigorous, healthful condi-
tion. . . . Pure enjoyment will not de-
base one of God's gifts."—"The Advent-
ist Home," page 497.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "Messages to Young People," pages 407-410.
97
Giving, the Greatest Joy
LESSON 12
Thursday
December 16
Part 5
"Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up
GIVE OF thy voice for understanding; if thou seekest her as silver,
YOUR TALENTS and searchest for her as for hid treasures; then shalt
thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowl-
Prov. 2:3-5 edge of God."
How diligent should the Christian be in seeking the
Lord? Jer. 29:13.
THINK IT THROUGH
The knowledge of God demands the concentration of the
whole being in seeking and finding Him. Study the parable
of the talents (Matt. 25:14-30) for inspiration on the impor-
tance of developing every talent lent us by the Lord.
"Time, reason, means, strength, mental powers, tenderness
of heart—all are gifts from God, entrusted to be used in the
great work of blessing humanity.
"Some apparently have but few talents, but by diligent
trading on their Lord's goods their endowments will be greatly
increased."—Ellen G. White Comments,
SDA Bible Commen-
tary,
Vol. 5, p. 1100.
The development of talents comprises true education. "Each
is to improve his talents to the utmost; and faithfulness in
doing this, be the gifts few or many, entitles one to honor."
—Child Guidance,
pages 293, 294.
How can I teach my child that self-love, self-respect,
demands the development of talents, but at the same
time their dedication to the service of God and man?
"The teacher should not think that
He increases our capabilities for ser-
all his time is to be spent in the study
vice."—"Counsels to Teachers," page
of books. By putting into practice what 234.
he learns he will obtain more than he
"The knowledge of God is not gained
will by mere study. As he uses his without mental effort and prayer for
knowledge, he will receive more. Some wisdom. Many are convinced that the
who have but one talent feel that they precious treasures of the kingdom of
can do nothing. They hide their talent God and of Christ are contained in the
in the earth, as it were; and because Word. They know also that no earthly
they receive no increase, they murmur treasure is gained without painstaking
against God. But if they would use the effort. Why should they expect to un-
ability given them, their talent would
derstand the meaning of the Scriptures
double. It is by a faithful use of talents
without diligent study?"—"Ibid.," p.
that they are multiplied. As we use
461.
aright the advantages God gives us,
FOR FURTHER STUDY:
"The Ministry of Healing," pages 183-200.
98
Giving, the Greatest Joy
LESSON 12
Friday
December 17
Part 6
"But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap
GIVE OF also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall
YOUR MEANS reap also bountifully. Every man according as he pur-
poseth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or
2 Cor. 9:6, 7 of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver."
We often think of stewardship as the giving of money for
God's cause. Yet of all the outward acts of worship, this can
be the most meaningless, unless we understand its purpose.
Above all we must avoid developing in ourselves or our chil-
dren a grudging spirit as we provide means for the church,
because when "we impart of our means when we• have not
the spirit to give freely, we mock God."—Ellen G. White
Comments,
SDA Bible Commentary,
Vol. 6, p. 1105.
By precept and example the children should learn early in
life that the tithe is the Lord's and goes to Him automatically,
with no consideration as to other possible uses for it. Beyond
that, we give offerings to God as He has prospered us. Mal.
3:8-10.
How did the psalmist suggest that we approach God's
sanctuary? Ps. 96:8.
THINK IT THROUGH
The offering we bring to God is symbolic of our offer-
ing of ourselves to Him. Could it be possible that I am
sometimes satisfied with only that symbolic offering?
"The light given me now by the Lord the widow.' Blessed is he that consid-
is that we are to be careful not to
ereth the poor: the Lord will deliver
spend our precious time and money him in time of trouble. The Lord will
unwisely. Many things may suit our
preserve him, and keep him alive; and
fancy, but we are to guard against the
he shall be blessed upon the earth: and
expenditure of money for that which Thou wilt not deliver him unto the will
is not bread. We shall need much of his enemies.' He that hath pity upon
means to advance the work decidedly the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and
in our cities. Everyone is to have a
that which he hath given will He pay
part to act in the lord's work. Parents
him again.' . . . He who makes this
are to instruct their children in lessons
investment lays up double treasure.
of economy, in order that the younger Besides that which, however wisely
members of the flock may learn to
improved, he must leave at last, he is
share the responsibility of supporting
amassing wealth for eternity,—that
the cause of God at this time."—"Child
treasure of character which is the most
Guidance," page 134.
valuable possession of earth or
"'Seek judgment, relieve the op-
heaven."—"Education," page 141.
pressed, judge the fatherless, plead for
FOR
FURTHER STUDY:
"Testimonies to Ministers," pages 418-425.
99
Giving, the Greatest Joy
LESSON 12
Part 7 <> SUMMARY QUESTIONS 0 TO TEST YOUR STUDY POWER
1.
God's supreme gift of His Son was an act of
for the world.
2.
The great joy in giving comes from the ability to do or to
, to
or to
3.
There is no greater gift that man can give to God or to others than the
gift of
4.
God's request to all, but especially to the youth is, "My son, give Me
1,
5.
What comprises true education?
6.
God is said to love a
giver.
(The answers are at the bottom of the page.)
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100
A FORETASTE OF HEAVEN
13
"Happy is that people, that is in such a case: yea, happy is that people, whose
God is the Lord." Ps. 144:15.
The aim of this lesson is to show how
the home can be a foretaste of heaven.
Theory has its place, but each one should
know what he can do day by day to make
his home a happy place, a place where
ideals are translated into reality. "Let there
be mutual love, mutual forbearance. Then
marriage instead of being the end of love,
will be as it were the very beginning of
love. The warmth of true friendship, the
love that binds heart to heart, is a foretaste
of the joys of heaven."—The
Ministry of
Healing, .
page 360.
KEY THOUGHTS
1.
Home is what you make it.
It can be
the most pleasant place to be or the most
miserable. It can be attractive or uninvit-
ing. It is what you make it.
2.
Being a Christian in the home is a
foretaste of heaven.
It opens the door to
happiness; it enables me to love each mem-
ber of my family and to appreciate my
home; it challenges me to do my best; and
it inspires me to reach perfection.
3.
Living with a Christian is a foretaste
of heaven.
It helps me to resist tempta-
tion; it strengthens my faith in God; it
reveals what it would be like to live with
the saints in heaven; and it creates within
me a desire to be a true Christian myself.
LESSON OUTLINE
1. Be Cheerful
Prov. 17:22
2. Be Courteous
1 Peter 3:8
3. Be Confident
2 Tim. 1:12
4. Be Consistent
Matt. 6:33
5. Be Companionable
1 John 4:8
6. Be Christlike
Luke 2:52
101
Part 1
BE CHEERFUL
Pray. 17:22
THINK IT THROUGH
Sunday
December
/9
"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a
broken spirit drieth the bones."
"The marvelous life-giving power to be found in cheerful-
ness"
(Education,
page 197) should be understood by every
Christian family. The muscles are energized to act, the in-
tellect is quickened to think, and the soul is charged with
ambition to succeed. One can do his best when he is cheerful.
What effect does cheerfulness have on children?
"Children hate the gloom of clouds and sadness. Their
hearts respond to brightness, to cheerfulness, to
love."—Child
Guidance,
page 147. Seldom does a child disobey a cheerful
parent. He wants to please. He likes to make his parents
happy. He is quick to obey a smile, but slower in responding
to a sad, gloomy face. He must hear the same request over and
over when the parent is anxious or worried. A cross parent
must threaten punishment to get results. The mind is capable
of the highest performance when one is cheerful. "Smile, par-
ents; smile, teachers. If your heart is sad, let not your face
reveal ithe fact."—Ibid., p. 148.
What effect does cheerfulness have on one's com-
panion?
A cheerful wife is the admiration and joy of her husband.
She can inspire him to be his best. A sad, tear-stained face
kills his desire to make good and usually brings out the mean-
est spirit in him. A cheerful husband is the life of the home.
He adds health and beauty to his wife. A glum husband can
drive a wife to despair.
How essential is cheerfulness to salvation? Ps. 13:5, 6;
Phil. 4:4.
Would the child who leaves his home in a cheerful
frame of mind make better progress in school than the
child who is neglected or constantly scolded by his par-
ents?
A Foretaste of Heaven
LESSON 13
"Unless you cultivate a cheerful,
be angry, jealous, or envious. It is diffi-
happy, grateful frame of mind, Satan
cult for a selfish person to have love,
will eventually lead you captive at his
joy, and peace in his heart. We are
will."—"Testimonies," Vol. 1, p. 704.
to "forget self, and think of something
It is difficult for a cheerful person to
cheerful."—"Ibid.," Vol. 2, p. 530.
FOR FURTHER
STUDY: "Testimonies," Vol. 2, p. 311; Vol. 6, p. 365; Vol. 7, p. 70.
102
Part 2
BE COURTEOUS
1 Peter 3:8
Monday
December 20
"Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion
one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be cour-
teous."
A Foretaste of Heaven
LESSON 13
"Christian courtesy should reign in every household."—The
Adventist Home,
page 421. It is one of the most attractive
ways to teach children how to be Christlike. "Gentle man-
ners, cheerful conversation, and loving acts will bind the
hearts of children to their parents by the silken cords of affec-
tion and will do more to make home attractive than the
rarest ornaments that can be bought for
gold."—Ibid.,
pp. 426,
427.
What is Christian courtesy?
"Our Saviour's Sermon on the Mount contains instruction
of priceless worth to old and young. It should be often read
in the family circle and its precious teachings exemplified in
the daily life. The golden rule, 'Whatsoever ye would that men
should do to you, do ye even so to them,' . . . should be made
the law of the family. Those who cherish the spirit of Christ
will manifest politeness at home."—Ibid., p. 423.
How will Christian courtesy affect teen-agers?
"There is great need of the cultivation of true refinement
in the home. . . . Truth of heavenly origin never degrades the
receiver, never makes him coarse or rough. Truth is softening
and refining in its influence. When received into the heart, it
makes the youth respectful and polite."—Ibid., p. 422.
THINK IT THROUGH
How far-reaching is courtesy in the home?
"The mission of the home extends
beyond its own members. The Chris-
tian home is to be an object lesson,
illustrating the excellence of the true
principles of life. Such an illustration
will be a power for good in the world."
—"The Ministry of Healing," page 352.
"The home in which the members
are polite, courteous Christians exerts
a far-reaching influence for good.
Other families will mark the results
attained by such a home, and will
follow the example set, in their turn
guarding the home against satanic in-
fluences."—"The Adventist Home," page
31.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "Testimonies,"
-
Vol. 3, pp. 417, 528, 422; Vol. 9, pp. 193,
189.
103
Part 3
BE CONFIDENT
2 Tim. 1:12
Tuesday
December 21
"For I know whom I have believed, and am per-
suaded that He is able to keep that which I have com-
mitted unto Him against that day."
The Christian can be confident, for he accepts the Word of
God as his infallible guide. This is the only way anyone can
be confident. Wealth, power, prestige, or location cannot
guarantee security. Counsels of men often lead astray, but the
Word of God, never. Each person must know for himself what
the lionieir for and what his individual responsibilities are to
that home.
Where does this knowledge originate? John 5:39.
How can parents be confident they are giving their
child the best kind of training?
Christian parents see that the child receives the right train-
ing from the beginning of life. "Too much importance cannot
be placed on the early training of children. The lessons that
the child learns during the first seven years of life have more
to do with forming his character than all that it learns in
future
years."—Child Guidance,
page 193. "The Christian
mother has her God-appointed work, which she will not neglect
if she is closely connected with
God."—The Adventist Home,
page 234. "The mother's most sacred duty is to her children."
—Ibid.
"The mother should not accept burdens in the church
work which compel her to neglect her children."—Ibid., p. 246.
Both the father and the mother must acknowledge that "it is
in the home that the education of the child is to begin. . . . He
is to learn the lessons that are to guide him throughout life—
lessons of respect, obedience, reverence,
self-control."—Coun-
sels to Teachers,
page 107.
What kind of education gives confidence? Prov. 9:10.
How can I best teach lessons of respect, obedience,
reverence, and self-control?
1).
THINK IT THROUGH
A Foretaste of Heaven
LESSON 13
"True education means more than
the pursual of a certain course of study.
It means more than a preparation for
the life that now is. It has to do with
the whole being, and with the whole
period of existence possible to man. It
is the harmonious development of the
physical, the mental, and the spiritual
powers. It prepares the student for the
joy of service in this world and for
the higher joy of wider service in the
world to come."—"Education," page 13.
FOR FURTHER STUDY: "Testimonies," Vol. 5, pp. 609, 479, 333; Vol. 3, pp. 248,
249.
104
A Foretaste of Heaven
LESSON 13
Part 4
BE CONSISTENT
Matt. 6:33
Wednesday
December 22
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righ-
teousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."
Any home without a definite objective will fail of worth-
while achievement. Without a purpose there is nothing to
achieve. If the main objective is to accumulate wealth, expen-
ditures will be cut to the minimum and incomes accelerated
to the maximum. If the main desire is to have a hilarious time,
work will be forgotten and duties neglected while time is
spent in merrymaking.
What is the advantage of regularity in the home?
"Irregularity has created disorder in your house, and, if
continued, will cause your mind to sink into imbecility."—
Testimonies,
Vol. 4, p. 498. "Irregular hours for eating and
sleeping sap the brain forces."—Sons
and Daughters of God,
page 172. "The laws of nature are the laws of God, and consist
of regularity in action."—Letter 120, 1896. "Arrange your
work so that you can have your meals at regular hours."—
Letter
297, 1904. "Ministers of Christ should possess physical
health. To attain this end they must become regular in their
habits and adopt a healthful system of
living."—Counsels on
Health,
page 193.
How consistent should we be with the discipline of
the children? Prov. 22:6.
THINK IT THROUGH
When should the process of careful living and regular
habits begin in earnest? How would the person but re-
cently joined to the Lord view his reckless past?
"Every Christian home should have
rules."—"The Adventist Home," page
305. "A fitful government—at one time
holding the lines firmly, and at another
allowing that which has been con-
demned—is ruination to a child."—
"Ibid.," p. 310. "Unsteadiness in fam-
ily government is productive of great
harm, in fact is nearly as bad as no
government at all."—"Ibid." "To mani-
fest severity and to be exacting with
children are great mistakes. Uniform
firmness and unimpassioned control
are necessary to the discipline of every
family. Say what you mean calmly,
move with consideration, and carry
out what you say without deviation."
—"Testimonies," Vol. 3, p. 532.
FOR
FURTHER STUDY:
"Testimonies," Vol. 5, p.
95; Vol. 7,
p. 70; Vol. 1, p. 416.
105
Part 5
BE COM-
PANIONABLE
1 John 4:8
Thursday
December 23
"He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is
love."
"There are many who regard the expression of love as a
weakness, and they maintain a reserve that repels others. . . .
We should beware of this error. Love cannot long exist without
expression."—The
Ministry of Healing,
page 360.
"Continue the early attentions. In every way encourage each
other in fighting the battles of life. Study to advance the hap-
piness of each other. . . . The warmth of true friendship, the
love that binds heart to heart, is a foretaste of the joys of
heaven."—Ibid. Relatives, friends, business, or pleasure should
not be allowed to interfere with the family companionship.
A Foretaste of Heaven
LESSON 13
What is the father's responsibility?
"Fathers, spend as much time as possible with your chil-
dren."—The
Adventist Home,
page 222. "Combine affection
with authority, kindness and sympathy with firm restraint.
Give some of your leisure hours to your children; become
acquainted with them; associate with them in their work and
in their sports, and win their confidence. Cultivate friendship
with them, especially with your sons. In this way you will be
a strong influence for good."—The
Ministry of Healing,
pages
391, 392.
What is the mother's opportunity?
"Amid all the activities of life the mother's most sacred
duty is to her children."—The
Adventist Home,.
page 234. "No
other work can equal hers in importance. She has not, like the
artist, to paint a form of beauty upon canvas; nor like the
sculptor, to chisel it from marble. . . . It is hers, with the help
of God, to develop in a human soul the likeness of the divine."
—The Ministry of Healing,
page 378.
THINK IT THROUGH
Am I giving each member of my family the com-
panionship I should?
"If the children do not find in their
tivate that which is noblest in your-
parents and in their home that which selves, and be quick to recognize the
will satisfy their desire for sympathy
good qualities in each other. The con-
and companionship, they will look to sciousness of being appreciated is a
other sources, where both mind and wonderful stimulus and satisfaction."
character may be endangered."—"The —"Ibid.," p. 361.
Ministry of Healing," page 389. "Cul-
FOR
FURTHER STUDY: "Testimonies," Vol. 1, pp. 391, 392; Vol. 5, pp. 108, 109.
106
A
Foretaste of Heaven
LESSON 13
Friday
December 24
Part 6
"And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in
BE CHRISTLIKE favor with God and man."
Luke 2:52
"Every child may gain knowledge as Jesus
did."—The De-
sire of Ages,
page 70. He can be given the same kind of care
and training Jesus received. Few, indeed, will have poorer par-
ents or live in a worse neighborhood. Yet He was "filled with
wisdom." His education was the best. His mother taught Him
herself from infancy. The Old Testament and nature were His
main textbooks. He "increased in stature." His physical needs
were cared for. With plenty of work to keep Him busy He
grew as a normal boy should. He was "in favor with God."
He pleased His heavenly Father in the same way children can
please Him today. He was "in favor with man." He was kind
and courteous to his playmates and respectful to His elders.
Was Jesus a precocious child?
"His mind was active and penetrating, with a thoughtful-
ness and wisdom beyond His years. Yet His character was
beautiful in its symmetry. The powers of mind and body
developed gradually, in keeping with the laws of childhood."
—Ibid.,
p. 68. Although He had a tremendous task to perform
and had only a limited time in which to accomplish it, He
lived the full life of the infant, the child, the teen-ager, and
the youth that He might be the perfect example to children
as well as to adults.
Why does it take a child so long to reach maturity?
The growing period is the learning period. Ample time is
given to permit the lessons to become fixed habits. Each plateau
of learning prepares the child for the next step. True education
prepares "the student for the joy of service in this world and
for the higher joy of wider service in the world to come."—
Education,
page 13.
THINK IT THROUGH
What kind of education am I giving my child?
"He who cooperates with the divine
purpose in imparting to the youth a
<nowledge of God, and molding the
character into harmony with His, does
3
high and noble work. As he awakens
a
desire to reach God's ideal, he pre-
sents an education that is as high as
leaven and as broad as the universe;
an education that cannot be completed
in this life, but that will be continued
in the life to come; an education that
secures to the successful student his
passport from the preparatory school
of earth to the higher grade, the school
above."--"Education," page 19.
FOR FURTHER
STUDY: "Testimonies," Vol. 4, p.
141; Vol. 6,
p. 173; Vol. 3, pp.
448, 449.
107
A Foretaste of Heaven
LESSON 13
Part 7
0
SUMMARY QUESTIONS
0
TO TEST YOUR STUDY POWER
1.
Complete: "Forget
, and think of something cheerful."
2.
What should reign in every household?
3.
True or False:
Husband and wife can be confident that their marriage will succeed.
Children should not be given character training until they are eight
or ten years of age
Parents should teach their children respect, obedience, reverence, and
self-control.
4.
Complete: "Every Christian home should have
5.
Complete:
cannot long exist without expression."
, spend as much time as possible with your children."
"The
most sacred duty is to her children."
6.
How can a child be Christlike?
(The answers are at the bottom of the page.)
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108
COUNSELS
T9
PARENTS,
TEACHERS,
AND
STUDENTS
you a
re
between the age
of 11 and 88, we have
a message for you!
Written especially for
parents and teachers
as well as students,
here is a volume of counsel
which when applied
will result in a rewarding
experience for all involved in
living the Christian life.
Bible you
r
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1:1:11 $5.25 deluxe
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$4.25 cloth
Add 20 cents postage.
Thirteenth Sabbath Overflow Offering
December 25, 1971 Far Eastern Division
This 'quarter the Thirteenth Sabbath Offering overflow goes to
the Far Eastern Division—a division offering a variety of situations,
from the steaming jungles of New Guinea, Borneo, and Sumatra
to the modern sophistication of Djakarta, Singapore, and Tokyo.
The gospel must reach all these areas, and this Thirteenth Sabbath
Offering will help make it possible. These are the projects:
1.
Mission launch
for Borneo. The launch will be based at
Samarinda, the provincial capital on the Mahakam River,
where there is a Seventh-day Adventist church, school, and
clinic, and from there make regular trips upriver, entering
new areas with medical help and the gospel.
2.
Lamb Shelters.
These are to provide simple meeting places
for children in the smaller churches which now have no place
to conduct Sabbath School, Vacation Bible School, et cetera.
3.
Hong Kong Adventist Hospital.
This hospital will offer first-
class medical care. Most of the funds needed have been raised
by public solicitation. This Thirteenth Sabbath Offering over-
flow will help complete the project.
There would be today no mission schools, hospitals, and evange-
listic centers had it not been for the interest, prayers, and generosity
of our Sabbath School members around the world. It is the small,
systematic, and sacrificial contribution of the individual member
which, multiplied by many thousands, produces these marvelous
offerings. The people of the Far East are praying for your help this
Thirteenth Sabbath.
Lessons for the First Quarter of 1972
Sabbath School members who have not received an adult
Lesson Quarterly
for the first quarter of 1972 will be helped
by the following outline in studying for the, first lesson. The
title of the series is 7,We Worship God.'!, The title of the first
lesson is
"The
Advent' Message, a Call to Worship." The.
memory verse is John 4:24.
The outline
-
is as follows: (1) Last-day Call to Worship.
Rev. 14:6;7. :?(2) 'A Warning Against False Worship. Rev.
18:2, 4. (3) Worship in Reverence and Humility. Isa. 57:15.
(4) Worship in Spirit and Truth. Jahn 4:23. (5) God's Great-,
ness Inspires WorshiP. Ps. 99:1, 9. (6) True Worship In-
sPires
-
Service. Luke 9:37.
Litho in U.S.A.
CANTO
NEW GUINEA
THE FAR EASTERN DIVISION
KOREAN UNION MISSION
CHURCH
S. S.
UNION
POPULATION CHURCHES MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP
Central Philippine
10,012,615
291
34,582
41,333
East Indonesia
10,372,629
239
17,972
22,140
Japan
103,220,000
75
7,426
6,623
Korea
31,139,000
242
34,473
28,838
North Philippine
19,554,558
556
45,562
47,983
South China Island
18,738,734
39
7,902
7,893
South Philippine
10,764,828
324
49,259
56,087
Southeast Asia
73,883,430
101
15,071
18,350
West Indonesia
112,450,000
265
24,730
40,706
Far Eastern Island Mission 200,000
9
800
891
Division Totals
390,335,794
2,141
237,777
270,844
As of Sept. 30, 1970.
New hospital
in Hong Kong
HONG KONG
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